What to do in a natural disaster
CASPA is dedicated to supporting our community through the good times and the hard ones. Here you'll find information and resources to help you weather the storm, fire or flood, and ways to ask for support if you need it.
If you or a loved one is in life threatening danger, call 000
If you need emotional support, you can speak to someone at Lifeline on 13 11 14
Stay informed
Monitor current warnings
The Australian Warning System (AWS) is a standardised national system that warns people about the level of danger and when to take action during a natural disaster.
There are three warning levels:
ADVICE (Yellow)
There is a hazard in the area, but no immediate danger. Stay informed as this could change.
WATCH AND ACT (Orange)
The hazard has become a threat to lives and property. Start taking action now to protect yourself.
EMERGENCY WARNING (Red)
This is the highest warning level. You are in danger and need to take action immediately. Delaying action will put your life at risk.
Where to find information
BOM Weather
Web: NSW | QLD | NT
SES
Ph: 132 500
Web: NSW | QLD | NT
ABC Radio
Live Traffic
Hazards Near Me
Emergency Plus
If it's flooded, forget it
Don't know where to start?
The ABC emergency website is full of informative articles to help you plan for and react to natural disasters.
Be prepared to leave
As a weather event becomes more severe, you may need to evacuate your home. Be prepared to leave quickly and packing a grab and go evacuation bag. Your bag should include the following:
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Important documents
Include identification and insurance documents, deeds and wills.
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First aid kit
Include items to help if someone is hurt and a week's work of essential medications.
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Work gloves
Thick work gloves will keep your hands safe if you need to move rubbish or debris.
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Torch
Pack a battery powered flashlight or lantern for night time visibility.
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Non-perishable food
Pack enough shelf stable food for three days. Don't forget a can opener.
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Spare batteries
Pack enough batteries to power your torch and radio for three days or more.
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Toiletries
Toothbrushes, soap, toilet paper, sunscreen, bug repellent and period products.
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Battery powered radio
So you can listen to ABC emergency radio updates even if you don't have internet or power.
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Mobile phone & charger
To stay connected, bring your phone, spare charger and charged power pack if you have one.
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Water
Pack at least 10 litres of drinking water per person. Plastic bottles are lighter.
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Baby supplies
Make sure have a bottle and enough formula, food, nappies and wipes for at least three days.
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Spare clothes
Pack a set of spare clothes including a jumper, rain jacket, hat, socks and enclosed shoes.
Supporting children during an emergency
Wild weather can be scary for everyone, but sometimes the children in our care need extra help to understand what's going on and feel safe, calm and supported.
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Validate
Avoid dismissing concerns that children might have. Instead, calmly acknowledge that it's okay to feel scared, and that you are safe together.
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Regulate
Use deep breathing, movement or cozy comfort to help little bodies regulate. Shift the focus from fear by distracting with immersive activities.
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Reassure
Our emotions affect the children in our care. Model deep breathing, stay present and remind children that they are safe.
Birdie and the Cyclone
Supporting children in an emergency

We're here to help
CASPA Office
Between 8.30am - 4.30pm: 1300 227 722
CASPA After Hours Support
Far North Coast: 0447 185 012
Mid North Coast: 0418 185 847
Child Protection Helpline: 132 111
Police/Ambulance/Fire: 000
Poisons Information Hotline: 131 126