As Queensland enters a potentially volatile season, the importance of disaster preparedness looms large. With the bushfire season already upon us and summer rainfall and cyclones on the horizon, authorities are calling on primary producers to take proactive steps in safeguarding their families, employees, and livestock.
This year's warmer winter weather has heightened the risk of bushfires, underlining the need for comprehensive preparation. Disaster guides are now readily available, offering invaluable information to empower Queenslanders in the face of these impending natural challenges.
By taking steps now, producers can reduce the risk of disaster damage and financial loss.
The Queensland Government has disaster guides to help primary producers get ready for disaster season.
Tips include photographing assets in their pre-disaster condition and ensuring everyone on the property is familiar with the evacuation plan in the event of a natural disaster.
Producers should also ensure livestock have access to higher ground or are moved to safer ground or shelter with access to food and water ahead of an event.
Make sure you’ve got a financial plan including having adequate insurance cover, reviewing how you will manage orders, refunds and cancellations, and keeping financial reserves and emergency cash.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said the Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that a high fire danger is likely to impact Queensland over the coming months.
“As a primary producer it’s critical you have plans to help support your business during a bushfire, as well as cyclones and floods,” Mr Furner said.
He urged pet owners not to forget about family pets in household or farm emergency plans.
“Keep emergency phone numbers handy for your local council, veterinarian, animal welfare agency and pet and advisory services and make sure your pets can be properly identified if they escape,” he added.
“If moving pets to safety, make sure you take plenty of food and clean water, bowls and toilet litter or old newspapers.
“If they are to be left at home, secure them in an appropriate confined space, preferably inside, elevated and under cover, and provide access to ample food and water.”
For more information on flood and cyclone preparations, such as local evacuation routes and public shelter arrangements, contact your local council.
Information on disasters for small business including primary producers is available at business.qld.gov.au/disaster-hub.
Primary producers who have been impacted by a natural disaster can report the impacts in the Queensland DAF Agriculture Disaster Impact Survey.
The survey helps DAF to contribute quickly to applications for assistance under the Commonwealth-State Disaster Assistance Arrangements.
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