MEDIA RELEASE

Auckland Region Civil Defence and Emergency Management Group

22 February 2007

Auckland earthquakes a timely reminder to be prepared, and listen for radio updates

Councillor Neil Morrison, Chair of the Auckland Region Civil Defence Emergency Management Group, is urging people to take a few simple steps to be prepared in case of a disaster like an earthquake.

“While earthquakes in Auckland are comparatively rare, they can strike at any time without warning, and if people are prepared it can make a big difference during an emergency, and in the days following.

“People should turn on their radio and listen to updates supplied to radio stations by the Emergency Services, Civil Defence or agencies like GNS Science.

"It’s also very important that people do a few simple things to better prepare themselves, and their families, for an emergency.

“The steps people take in advance really do make a difference in terms of being able to cope when a disaster strikes."

People should plan ahead and have:

- an emergency survival kit (e.g. radio and batteries, torch, water - 3 litres per person/day, and food)

- a getaway kit (e.g. blankets, clothing).

- hazards to consider and how to avoid them (e.g. falling objects, loss of water and power, evacuating your home).

- identifying key contacts, a family meeting place, and who is responsible for what items.

"Being prepared for a disaster is everyone's responsibility," says Cr Morrison.

Cr Morrison says that people need to know that they might be by themselves for up to three days, and that during this time it is highly likely that there could be limited drinking water available, power and phone lines could be cut off and sewerage systems could be affected.

What you should do in emergencies:

Tsunami warning
Go at least 1 kilometre inland or 35 metres above sea level.

Earthquake
Duck, cover and hold on.

Volcanic Eruption
Stay inside unless otherwise advised or building is in immediate danger.

Industrial and chemical accidents
Evacuate the area as advised.

Cyclone
Stay inside and open window on sheltered side of house.

Flood
Move to an area higher than flood level.

In an emergency, stop, think and respond...

- get your survival kit items

- listen to your battery operated radio

- use common sense

- ensure all family/household members know what to do

The Auckland Region Civil Defence Emergency Management Group is charged with ensuring a coordinated response in the event of a large scale emergency in the Auckland region. It is made up of representatives from all city and district councils in the region, health agencies, the emergency services and the ARC.

Information about being prepared for a disaster is available online at www.cdemg.org.nz. Copies are also available from local councils in the Auckland region, or by calling 0800 22 22 00.

ENDS

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