Cyclone Safety: Be Prepared, Stay Safe

Before the Cyclone: Prepare & Plan

The best way to stay safe is to be prepared. Take these steps well before a cyclone is forecast:

• Stay Informed – Monitor weather updates from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and follow advice from emergency services. Download emergency alert apps and ensure your phone is fully charged.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit – Include essential items like bottled water, non-perishable food, medications, first aid supplies, flashlights, extra batteries, a battery-powered radio, and important documents in a waterproof container.
• Secure Your Property – Tie down or bring inside any loose objects such as outdoor furniture, tools, and garden items. Clear gutters and drains to reduce flooding risk.
• Know Your Evacuation Plan – Identify your nearest evacuation center and have a plan for how you’ll get there if needed. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider relocating before the cyclone hits.
• Check Emergency Contacts – Make sure you have updated contact details for family, colleagues, and emergency services.
• Workplace Safety – If you’re working in an affected area, follow site-specific cyclone procedures and secure equipment before the storm arrives.

During the Cyclone: Stay Safe & Stay Inside

Once a cyclone warning is issued, take immediate action:

• Stay Indoors – Strong winds and flying debris make it extremely dangerous to be outside. Find shelter in the safest part of your home or building, away from windows and doors.
• Avoid Unnecessary Travel – Roads may be flooded or blocked by fallen trees and debris. Stay put until authorities confirm it’s safe to move.
• Be Cautious of the Cyclone Eye – If winds suddenly drop, don’t assume the storm is over. The eye of the cyclone is a temporary calm, and the winds will return from the opposite direction.
• Follow Workplace Protocols – If you are on shift, follow site emergency procedures and listen to your supervisor’s instructions.
• Stay Updated – Keep a radio or phone handy to receive official updates. Avoid relying on social media unless the information comes from a verified source.

After the Cyclone: Assess & Recover

Once the cyclone has passed, remain cautious:

• Wait for Official Clearance – Don’t assume it’s safe to go outside until emergency authorities confirm.
• Beware of Hazards – Downed power lines, floodwaters, and debris can pose serious risks. Report hazards to authorities immediately.
• Avoid Floodwater – It may be contaminated or hide dangerous debris and fast-moving currents.
• Check on Others – Ensure family, friends, and colleagues are safe. If you’re at work, follow safety checks and report any damage or injuries
• Follow Return-to-Work Procedures – If you’re returning to a WorkPac job site, wait for instructions from your supervisor and follow all safety protocols.

Stay Alert & Look Out for Each Other

Your safety is the number one priority. If you’re in a cyclone-prone area, don’t take risks—prepare early, follow official advice, and look out for your mates.

For emergency updates, follow:

• Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) – www.bom.gov.au
• State Emergency Services (SES) – Contact your local SES for assistance
• Local Authorities & Emergency Services – Follow their instructions and evacuation orders

By staying informed and prepared, we can all weather the storm safely.