During a Disaster

During disaster events, official warnings are issued by emergency services and lead agencies to help protect lives and property. The Australian Warning System is used to communicate three levels of warning:

• Advice – an incident has started; stay informed
• Watch and Act – conditions are changing; prepare to act
• Emergency Warning – immediate danger; act now

Residents must act immediately on warnings that apply to their location and circumstances. Do not wait to see what happens. Warnings may be delivered through emergency alerts, Council communication channels, radio, television and online platforms.

The primary objective during a disaster is the protection of life. Conditions can change rapidly and hazards may not be immediately visible.

Residents should:

• Avoid floodwaters, as they may be fast‑moving, contaminated or conceal hazards
• Stay clear of fallen powerlines, damaged buildings and unstable structures
• Seek shelter appropriate to the hazard, such as indoors during storms or heatwaves
• Follow instructions from emergency services at all times

Never put yourself at risk to protect property.

Evacuations are coordinated by the Queensland Police Service, with support from Somerset Regional Council and other agencies. Evacuations may be recommended or formally ordered depending on the level of risk.

If advised or directed to evacuate:

• Leave early if it is safe to do so
• Take essential items only, including medications, identification and emergency kits
• Follow nominated evacuation routes and destinations
• Assist others where possible, without putting yourself at risk

Delaying evacuation can significantly increase danger.

Disaster situations can escalate or change very quickly. The Somerset Local Disaster Management Group coordinates public information during events.

Residents should stay informed by monitoring:

• Somerset Regional Council’s Disaster Dashboard
• Council social media channels
• Emergency alerts sent to phones
• Local radio broadcasts
• Advice from emergency services on the ground

Rely only on official and trusted information sources during an emergency.

In some circumstances, evacuation may not be possible due to sudden changes, road closures or safety concerns.

If you are unable to evacuate:

• Stay where you are and move to the safest available location
• Avoid windows and external doors where appropriate
• Conserve food, water, medications and power
• Await instructions from emergency services regarding assistance or resupply

The Plan recognises that some Somerset communities may become temporarily isolated, particularly during flood events.

During disasters, utilities such as electricity, gas, water and telecommunications may be disrupted or damaged.

If safe to do so:

• Turn off electricity and gas if advised or if water is entering your home
• Do not use electrical appliances that have been exposed to water
• Avoid using generators or open flames indoors
• Report damaged infrastructure to authorities when conditions allow

Always prioritise personal safety over restoring services.

The Somerset Local Disaster Management Plan recognises that some communities may become temporarily isolated during flood events, severe weather or infrastructure damage.

If you become isolated:

• Remain where you are in the safest available location
• Conserve food, water, medications and power
• Avoid unnecessary travel or exposure to hazards
• Await further instructions regarding resupply or assistance

Emergency services and Council will prioritise support to isolated communities when conditions allow.

Residents should consider the safety of pets and livestock during disaster events.

Where time and conditions allow:

• Move animals to safer locations
• Ensure pets are restrained or contained
• Take emergency supplies for animals if evacuating

Do not place yourself at risk to rescue animals during hazardous conditions.