Disaster preparedness is a shared responsibility between individuals, businesses, community organisations, Somerset Regional Council and emergency services. While Council and response agencies play an important role, everyone has a part to play in preparing for disasters.
The Somerset Local Disaster Management Plan encourages residents to take personal responsibility for preparedness actions such as understanding local risks, making emergency plans, maintaining properties and being self‑sufficient for short periods. Being prepared helps reduce the impact of disasters and supports faster recovery for the whole community.
The Somerset region is exposed to a range of natural and non‑natural hazards. These may include heatwaves, severe thunderstorms, flooding (both flash flooding and riverine flooding), bushfires, drought, pandemics and other emergencies.
Understanding which hazards may affect your area, and how they may impact you, your family, your business or your property, is essential. Knowing your local risks allows you to make informed decisions before an event and respond more effectively if a disaster occurs.
Having a clear, written emergency plan helps reduce uncertainty and stress during a disaster. The Local Disaster Management Plan encourages households and businesses to prepare plans that are understood by everyone involved.
An emergency plan should include:
Plans should be reviewed regularly and updated as circumstances change.
Some Somerset communities may become temporarily isolated during disaster events. Residents are encouraged to be self‑sufficient for at least three days if access to services is disrupted.
Emergency kits should include:
Having supplies prepared in advance helps ensure safety and comfort during emergencies.
Preparing your property can reduce damage during a disaster and support quicker recovery afterwards. Regular maintenance and preparation actions can make a significant difference.
Property preparation may include:
Primary producers and business owners should also plan for livestock welfare, equipment protection and business continuity arrangements.
Staying informed before a disaster occurs allows you to act early and make safe decisions. The Somerset Local Disaster Management Plan highlights the importance of accessing reliable and trusted information sources.
Residents are encouraged to monitor:
Knowing where to find accurate information before a disaster helps you respond quickly when conditions change.
Preparation does not eliminate risk, but it significantly reduces the impact of disasters. Communities that plan ahead, stay informed and support one another are better able to cope with emergencies and recover more quickly.
Taking simple preparedness actions now helps protect lives, reduces damage and strengthens the resilience of the Somerset community.