Bunnings helps locals prepare for disasters

Local emergency services, Bundaberg Regional Council and Bunnings recently partnered to provide locals with information on how to prepare for storms, floods and bushfires as part of Get Ready Queensland Week.

Through a variety of workshops, information stands and kids activities, residents were given the opportunity to learn more about natural disasters and emergencies that are becoming an increasingly frequent part of life in Queensland.

Almost 3000 youngsters attended the Kids Emergency GRQ workshops in Bunnings stores right across the state, creating emergency boards and wrist bands.

Disaster readiness and survival information was also shared with the community by visiting SES crews and other emergency services, with 15,000 Get Ready brochures distributed.

Bundaberg Regional Council’s Disaster Management team were also on hand to provide residents with information.

The team recently offered one-on-one advice to help locals understand how to make a plan and pack an emergency kit.

Bunnings actively supports local communities in disaster preparation and has been doing so as part of Get Ready Queensland since the program started in 2011.

During disaster responses, Bunnings also provides sausage sizzles for emergency services crews and volunteers, kids activities at evacuation centres, water and snacks at clean-up locations, donations and hands-on support.

Bunnings Bundaberg is encouraging the community to prepare for natural disasters, including by packing an emergency kit.

“Even if you aren’t directly affected by a natural disaster, a disruption to services may mean that you need to use an emergency kit,” Bunnings Activity Co-ordinator Operations North, Leeanne Hannah said.

Here are some items you should consider packing in your emergency kit to look after your family:

1. A change of clothes for each member of the household – include wind and waterproof jackets, hats, gloves and strong protective closed shoes
2. Toiletries – include sunscreen and toilet paper
3. Non-perishable food such as canned goods
4. A can opener
5. Plenty of clean drinking water
6. A battery-powered radio
7. A torch
8. Spare batteries
9. Blankets or sleeping bags
10. Snap lock bags, garbage bags and cling wrap for storing items
11. Hand sanitiser and disinfectant wipes
12. A mobile phone charger and power bank
13. Pet supplies
14. A waterproof plastic container with a lid – make sure it’s large enough to store all your emergency kit items

For more information on preparing for severe weather events head to the Disaster Dashboard here.