Cyclone and severe flooding checklists

Unpredictable and powerful storms are a part of life in the Territory and it's important to be prepared.

Simple preparations could help you and your family in times of a disaster. Prepare a household disaster plan and evacuation plan. Keep a list of emergency numbers and make sure important documents (passports and identification) as well as cash are safe in waterproof containers.

The links below provide checklists to help you and your family to remain safe during cyclones and storms:

• Preparation checklist
• Before a cyclone or severe flooding event
• During a cyclone or severe flooding event
• After a cyclone or severe flooding event

Preparation checklist

• Tidy up unsecured objects around your home and yard.
• Trim loose or dying branches from trees. Always call a professional tree removal contractor to trim vegetation close to powerlines.
• Have extra cash on hand - ATMs and banks may not be operating.
• Write down important phone numbers to keep on hand or put them in your mobile phone, for example, your electrician.
• Freeze water for alternative refrigeration should there be a power failure.
• Install a surge protector in your home to protect sensitive electronic equipment.
• Consider purchasing a generator, especially if you live in a rural area

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Before a cyclone or severe flooding event

• Check your cyclone season preparations.
• Ensure mobile phone batteries are fully charged.
• Fill containers with water including bath and sink, in case water supply is cut.
• Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting. If the power goes out, this will keep food fresh longer. If you leave the refrigerator closed, most food will stay frozen or fresh for up to 12 hours. Use your supplies of ice to keep fridges and freezers cold.
• If you are evacuating your home turn the electricity off at the main switchboard and water at the meter
• Turn off and unplug electrical appliances. Unplug TV, DVD or VCR aerial cables.
• Check that your overflow relief gully (ORG) is clear.
• Remove any rain water or storm water connections to sewer to minimise potential for sewage overflows.

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During a cyclone or severe flooding event

• Stay inside and stay clear of windows and doors.
• Listen to a portable radio for weather updates.
• Use a torch to find your way around.
• Don't use electrical appliances that are wet or damaged.
• Don't use a landline phone during a storm. In emergencies use a mobile.

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After a cyclone or severe flooding event

• Stay well away from fallen powerlines. Always assume they are 'live' and dangerous. Report them immediately to our emergency number 1800 245 090.
• Warn children not to swim in floodwaters - there may be 'live' electrical wiring or fallen powerlines in or around the water which may be hidden by debris.
• Listen to a portable radio for official advice and power restoration information. Don't venture outside until the all clear has been given.
• Alert neighbours if you think there may be any danger.
• Don't go sight-seeing.
• Don't connect a portable generator to the electrical wiring of your house or office unless an isolating switch has been permanently installed by a licensed electrical contractor. Appliances can be plugged directly into the generator.
• Always run portable generators outside the house and keep them well away from open windows including those of neighbours so that exhaust fumes don't enter any homes.
• Don't use any electrical appliances that have been wet or damaged. Have them checked by a licensed electrical contractor.
• Take extra care around your switchboard if it is outdoors, wear synthetic or rubber soled shoes. If you are in any doubt about the switchboard's safety, call your licensed electrical contractor.
• If you experience tingles or shocks from an electrical appliance or water taps, call us immediately on 1800 234 090, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Also call your licensed electrical contractor to check your electrical wiring immediately.
• If your house or business sustains damage preventing the reconnection of power, have a NT licensed electrical contractor repair electrical damage. Notify Power and Water when repairs are complete, or you have been issued a Certificate of Compliance (if necessary) on 1800 245 092 so power can be restored.
• If your neighbours get their power back, but you don't, call us on 1800 245 092.
• Do not go near any dislodged sewer access opening (manholes).
• Do not use an excessive amount of water to wash down, clean up after the event.
• Comply with any public service advice including boil water alerts.

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