It’s time to Get Ready Mackay

While summertime marks fun events like Christmas break and holidays, it also brings an increase of severe weather events including storms and bushfires.

From October 10-17, Queenslanders are being urged to prepare their homes and their communities as part of Get Ready Queensland Week 2021.

Mayor Greg Williamson said severe weather patterns are all part of living in a tropical paradise like Mackay.

“Making decisions in an emergency can be stressful and we know the best defence in an emergency is preparedness,” Mayor Williamson said.

“It’s everyone’s responsibility to have plans in place that keep you and your family safe – nobody should expect emergency services to be at the door when disaster strikes,” he said.

“Take the necessary steps today and prepare a household emergency plan and pack an emergency kit.”

A household evacuation plan is a simple way to have your “five knows” covered: know when to go, know where to go, know how to move, know what to take and know your neighbours.

Mayor Williamson encouraged every resident in the Mackay region to also register to receive notifications from council’s disaster dashboard.

Registering is simple, head to disaster.mackay.qld.gov.au and click opt-in notification.

Receiving notifications ensures you have immediate, accurate and relevant information in the event of an emergency or disaster.

For more information on emergency management, visit council’s website.