The impacts of a tropical cyclone are well known amongst most Burdekin locals but Member for Burdekin, Dale Last, wants to ensure complacency doesn’t result in additional damage or injury.
While the Burdekin felt the effects of both Cyclones Debbie and Yasi as well as other severe weather events, the last severe tropical cyclone to directly impact the area was Tropical Cyclone Aivu almost 35 years ago.
“Being prepared is the biggest step in both minimising damage and ensuring a speedy recovery from severe weather events,” Mr Last said.
“Based on current predictions we will feel the effects of this cyclone either directly or indirectly and now is not the time to be complacent.
“It’s a message that is repeated quite often but the importance of having a cyclone kit cannot be understated.
“Medications, long-life food, water and important documents need to be stored in a secure place where they can be accessed when needed.
“These types of events place a huge burden on our emergency services, both paid and volunteer, so if people have made the preparations to allow them to be a little self-sufficient, that can make a huge difference.
“In saying that, it is also vitally important that, if people need help, they seek it sooner rather than later.”
Mr Last urged people to focus on messaging from reputable sources for reliable weather information.
“Social media is a great way to share information but, in situations like these, it is vitally important that you make decisions based on reliable information from groups such as the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG),” he said.
“The message is be prepared, don’t assume and don’t panic.
“It’s also important that we check that family and friends are prepared, especially if they are new to the area or may need some assistance due to age or health.
“Our community has faced events like this in the past and, when we have, we band together and look out for each other.
“I am confident that, whether we are directly or indirectly effected by this event, we will do that again.”
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