Coasties urged to be future prepared

The Hibiscus and Bays Local Board has adopted an Emergency Readiness and Response Plan.

The plan includes advice and information about the top hazards in the area, how to prepare for emergencies, and what to do when responding to emergencies. It was developed together with Auckland Emergency Management and  community groups to ensure it was specific to the area.

Board chair Alexis Poppelbaum said the flood damage to homes last year was a brutal wake-up call to be better prepared for future emergency events. 

Heading into the summer season, many residents will still have last year’s floods and the cyclone aftermath on their mind. That was a key driver for the plan, incorporating lessons learned from the response and recovery management.

“The reality of emergency preparedness is that the response will be different depending on the type and scale of the event,” Poppelbaum said.

“It’s essential that households agree on their plans for a range of emergency situations, such as where you would meet if you can’t get home. This plan will help you and your household be prepared.”

The plan also includes key emergency contacts, information on where community emergency hubs are located, and a map on inundation risk areas. Poppelbaum encourages residents to connect with neighbours and to go through the plan with their families.

The plan is available on the council website at https://tinyurl.com/nabb4vxr Printed copies will be available in libraries and community centres.