Disaster and Emergency Response
Our region has a high risk profile for multiple hazards. Its important that you know your risk, stay informed and are well prepared so that you recover better. Important things to know in the response stage of a disaster event:
Staying Informed
Your Local City Council Emergency Dashboards are a one-stop shop and source of truth that will connect you to the emergency management services, road closures, traffic access etc. It's helpful to bookmark these on your computer.
For up-to-date information on your mobile, install the Hazards Near Me, Emergency Plus and BOM Weather Apps. Track the most up to date warnings:
For regular updates from NBMPHN, register for our News Updates to receive disaster updates.
Understanding Warnings, learn more about the different warnings to stay informed.
RFS Local Government Area Facebook Pages
Respond and Act
You should implement your emergency plan, ensuring you have any emergency equipment and supplies ready and ensure your team are aware of their roles and responsibilities. Your plan should include how you are communicating with your patients, particularly those of highest risk.
- SES 132 500
- RFS 1800 679 737
- In an emergency call 000
The RACGP has comprehensive resources and checklists to help.
Update your operational Status and Hours with Health Direct
It is important that as part of your response you ensure that your operational information and hours are updated regularly on HealthDirect (or to Health Direct via Provider Connect.)
The most effective support you can provide during a time of disaster is to remain operational and consider extending practice opening hours to accommodate an increase in patient demand if it is safe to do so.
Continued Dispensing
Continued Dispensing is the supply of an eligible medicine to a person by an approved pharmacist, where there is an immediate need for the medicine, but where it is not practicable to obtain a valid PBS prescription - like in the event of a disaster. The Pharmaceutical Society of Australia has guidance on the supply of medicines under the Continued Dispensing arrangements. More information for pharmacists about supplying and claiming under Continued Dispensing of PBS Medicines in Defined Circumstances can be found on the Service Australia website.
Cold Chain Management
There is an increased risk of cold chain management breaches during flooding and storm events due to power failures. Practices should ensure that their cold chain management procedures are in place. All immunisation providers must have an up-to-date cold chain protocol to support staff in the event of a breach.
Evacuation Centres
If Evacuation Centres are opened in response to an event they will be identified on the Local Council Disaster Dashboards and at NSW Disaster Assistance Welfare Line lists open evacuation centres and Disaster Welfare Assistance Points - 1800 018 444.
Mental Health and Wellbeing
It is important in response to a disaster and emergency event that you are aware of your and your teams mental health and wellbeing.
Recovery
As a disaster or emergency event transitions to recovery you can find more assistance.
