Life in the beautiful Northland region of New Zealand offers a relaxed pace and stunning scenery. However, unexpected events can happen anywhere. Whether it’s a power outage affecting the Far North, a severe storm impacting the Bay of Islands, or even a health emergency in Kaipara, being prepared can make all the difference in your safety and well-being. This blog focuses on simple yet crucial steps that seniors across Northland can take to be ready for the unexpected, offering you greater peace of mind and control.
Why is Emergency Preparedness Important for Seniors?
As we age, certain factors can make us more vulnerable during emergencies. Mobility might be limited, accessing help could be more challenging, and relying on specific medications or equipment is common. Being proactive about emergency preparedness ensures you have the resources and knowledge to navigate challenging situations with greater confidence, no matter where you are in Northland.
Three Key Steps to Being Prepared:
- Creating Your Personal Emergency Plan:
- Identify Potential Risks in Northland: Think about the types of emergencies that could occur in our region. This might include power outages, storms (including potential for coastal flooding in areas like Paihia or Mangawhai), or even health-related emergencies. Consider any specific risks relevant to your immediate location within Northland.
- Know Your Needs: Consider any specific medical needs, mobility limitations, or reliance on assistive devices.
- Establish Communication:
- Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of important phone numbers readily accessible. This should include family members, friends who can assist you, your doctor, and emergency services (like 111). Keep a copy by your phone and in your emergency kit.
- Out-of-Area Contact: Designate a contact person who lives outside of Northland. In a widespread emergency, local phone lines might be overwhelmed, but an out-of-area contact might be easier to reach and can help relay information.
- Plan Your Escape Routes (if applicable): If you live in an area prone to specific hazards (like flooding or potential landslips in hilly areas), know the safest and quickest way to evacuate your home.
- Consider Pets: If you have pets, include their needs in your plan, such as food, water, and a safe place for them.
- Share Your Plan: Discuss your emergency plan with a trusted family member or friend so they are aware of your preparations and can offer assistance if needed.
- Assembling Your Emergency Kit: Having a well-stocked emergency kit ensures you have essential supplies on hand if you need to shelter in place or evacuate quickly. Store your kit in an easily accessible location, and remember to check and replenish it regularly (at least twice a year). Here are some essential items to include:
- Water: At least 3 litres of water per person for drinking and sanitation (aim for a 3-day supply).
- Food: Non-perishable food supply for at least 3 days (canned goods, energy bars, dried fruit). Don’t forget a manual can opener!
- First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, any personal medications (ensure they are within their expiry dates and have clear dosage instructions), and copies of your prescriptions.
- Torch (Flashlight) and Extra Batteries: Essential for navigating in the dark.
- Radio (Battery-Powered or Wind-Up): To stay informed about emergency broadcasts.
- Whistle: To signal for help if needed.
- Warm Blanket or Sleeping Bag: For warmth, especially important during cooler Northland evenings.
- Essential Medications: Ensure you have at least a 3-day supply, ideally more.
- Personal Hygiene Items: Soap, toilet paper, moist towelettes.
- Copies of Important Documents: Keep copies of your ID, insurance information, medical information, and emergency contact list in a waterproof bag.
- Cash: ATMs and EFTPOS machines may not work during a power outage, which can be more common in rural Northland areas.
- Assistive Devices (if applicable): Ensure you have backup batteries for hearing aids, mobility aids, or other essential equipment.
- Special Needs Items: If you have specific dietary needs or rely on certain equipment, make sure your kit includes these items.
- Knowing Who to Contact and How (Northland Specific Information):
- Emergency Services (111): For immediate life-threatening situations (fire, medical emergency, police) anywhere in Northland. Know your address clearly so you can provide it quickly.
- Family and Friends: Keep your emergency contact list handy. Identify individuals who live nearby within your Northland community and could offer assistance.
- Your Doctor: In a non-life-threatening medical situation, your doctor’s office is the best point of contact. Always keep your specific GP’s number handy.
- Local Councils: They will provide information and updates during local emergencies. Know how to access their websites or emergency information channels:
- Whangārei District Council: Check their website (https://www.wdc.govt.nz/Home) for emergency information or specific contact numbers during events.
- Far North District Council (covering Kerikeri and Kaitaia): Visit their website (https://www.fndc.govt.nz/) for emergency updates and contact details. You might find specific emergency management contacts listed.
- Civil Defence Northland: Familiarize yourself with the Northland Civil Defence Emergency Management Group. Their website (search “Northland Civil Defence”) will provide regional information, updates, and potentially local contact numbers during emergencies. They often work in conjunction with the district councils.
- Consider a Personal Alarm: If you live alone anywhere in Northland, a personal alarm can provide an immediate way to call for help in a medical or other emergency. Research local providers in your area.
Taking Action Today for a Safer Tomorrow in Northland:
Emergency preparedness isn’t about being fearful; it’s about being responsible and proactive in protecting yourself within our unique Northland environment. By taking these simple steps – creating a plan, assembling a kit, and knowing who to contact in your specific area – you can significantly enhance your safety and well-being during unexpected events.
Start small. Maybe this week you focus on compiling your emergency contact list, including local friends or family in your Northland community. Next week, you could gather some non-perishable food items. Every step you take brings you closer to being prepared and having greater peace of mind, knowing you’re ready for whatever comes your way in our beautiful Northland region.
Do you have any personal tips for emergency preparedness specific to Northland? Share them in the comments below!
