Disaster Preparedness
These resources were originally compiled as part of the Recover, Adapt, Connect (RAC) program, an initiative funded by the Australian Government to support communities impacted by the Black Summer Bushfires. Although the RAC program has concluded, the information and tools below remain available for use and sharing.
Why Disaster Preparedness Matters
Strong, connected communities are better equipped to handle disasters. When people have solid social connections, they can support one another during and after natural disasters. Here are some essential steps for preparedness:
Take Care of Yourself
Maintaining a healthy routine — like staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep — helps build resilience against unexpected events. Make time for activities you enjoy to recharge your mental batteries.
Stay Connected
Reach out to friends, family, and neighbours; especially those who may be isolated. Checking in can make a significant difference to someone’s wellbeing.
Create an Emergency Plan and Kit
Prepare an emergency kit in advance that you can take with you on short notice. Keep your kit in a safe accessible space. Check and update your kit at least yearly or closer to known disaster periods or events, e.g. bushfire season, storm season.
An emergency kit should contain items that would support you for a period of up to three days, and can include the following:
Stock up on water
A supply of fresh filtered water could make all the difference if tap water becomes contaminated.
Get a camping cooktop
A gas cooktop will allow you to cook hot meals if you have no electricity. Ensure you have a full gas bottle and matches.
Create a personal contact list
Keep important numbers handy, like your Doctor, your Pharmacist and a support network of friends and family.
Have a disaster supply kit
Put together a pack of useful items, including a torch, batteries, first aid kit, sanitation and medication supplies.
Keep a supply of nonperishables
Nonperishable foods will allow you to keep cooking meals when you can’t buy groceries or if your power is out.
Essential supplies
Remember to prepare supplies for pets and small children – pet food, formula and nappies!
Preparedness Apps to Download
Strong, connected communities are better equipped to handle disasters. When people have solid social connections, they can support one another during and after natural disasters. Here are some essential steps for preparedness:
Fueling Recovery: Eating Well During Natural Disasters
Preparing healthy meals is crucial during tough times. Our accredited dietitians have developed resources to assist families with budgeting, meal planning, and shopping strategies.
Deciding on a budget
Take some time to determine how much you can allocate towards groceries each week. Once you have set a budget, you can explore different resources to help you make the most of it. Look for catalogues from local supermarkets or use mobile phone applications that provide information on current deals and discounts. Additionally, check your pantry and take note of the ingredients you already have on hand. Consider what is in season, as seasonal produce tends to be more affordable and readily available.
Meal Planning
Meal planning is an essential strategy for maximizing your budget and maintaining a healthy diet. Start by scheduling a time for meal planning, preferably when you can give it your full attention. Check your calendar for any upcoming events or commitments that may influence your meal choices. To make the process easier, create a go-to recipe list that includes nutritious meals you enjoy preparing and eating. When planning your meals, consider options that use similar components, as this can help you save money by buying ingredients in bulk. Also, think about meals that can be reheated the next day or enjoyed cold, which can save you time and effort.
Shopping List Writing
Writing an organised shopping list is crucial to avoid unnecessary purchases and stay within your budget. Choose a digital or note-taking system that works best for you, whether it’s a smartphone app or a pen and paper. Consider using the Woolworths or Coles app, which can provide additional support in creating your shopping list and finding the best deals. Before finalising your list, take stock of the items you already have at home to avoid uneccessary purchases. To further streamline your shopping experience, you could create a master list categorised by availability. Use colour-coding or labels (such as red, yellow, and green) to indicate items that are low, partially stocked, or fully stocked. Be precise with quantities to prevent over-purchasing and minimise food waste. Categorise your list based on food groups, aisle, or store layout for more efficient shopping.
Navigating the Supermarket
When you head to the supermarket, it’s important to approach your shopping trip with a clear plan to stay on budget. Avoid shopping on an empty stomach, as hunger can lead to impulse purchases. As you navigate the aisles, focus on locating deals and discounts, but try to stick mostly to the perimeter of the store where fresh produce, meat, and dairy products are typically located. Remain disciplined and only buy what you need, referring to your carefully crafted shopping list. By reducing the number of trips to the store, you can minimise the temptation to make unnecessary purchases. Opt for larger packet options when possible, as they often offer better value for money. Don’t overlook store brands, as they can be more cost-effective without compromising quality. Additionally, consider frozen and canned options, which can be both nutritious and budget-friendly. As you put items into your cart, tick them off your shopping list to keep track of what you have already purchased.
Safe Food Storage
Once you have completed your shopping trip and brought your groceries home, it’s important to focus on proper food storage to maintain freshness and safety. Follow the guidelines set by Food Standards Australia New Zealand to ensure the longevity and quality of your food. Keep storage areas clean, dry, and free from pests to prevent contamination. Use food-safe containers, covers, and packaging to protect your food from spoilage. For potentially hazardous food items like raw meats, seafood, and dairy products, store them at a temperature of 5ºC or colder. It is helpful to use a thermometer to verify the temperature accuracy. Frozen food should be kept hard, ensuring it remains frozen to preserve its quality. By following these guidelines for safe food storage, you can maximize the shelf life of your groceries and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.
