Make a household emergency plan

Whether you live with your family, friends or flatmates, it is important to all be on the same page when it comes to what to do in an emergency.

A household emergency plan lets everyone in your household know what to do in an emergency and how to get ready. Having a plan helps make actual emergency situations less stressful.

Useful template to help you make a plan together:

Make a Plan PDF Template | English

Make a Plan PDF Template (Short Version) | English

Important things to talk about while making an emergency plan:

• What will you do in the event of a disaster such as an earthquake, tsunami, volcanic eruption, flood or storm?
• How and where will you meet up during and after a disaster? Think about what you will do if some of you are at work or school – how will you get home?
• Where will you store emergency survival items and who will be responsible for maintaining supplies?
• What will each household member need to have in their getaway kits and where will they keep them?
• What will you need to do for members of the household, family or community with a disability or special requirement?
• What will you need to do for your pets, domestic animals or livestock?
• How and when will you turn off the water, electricity and gas in your home or business?
• What local radio stations will you tune into for civil defence information during an event?
• How will you contact Auckland Council's call centre for assistance during an emergency?
• If life or property is threatened, dial 111.

Prepare emergency items at home

Here are some ideas for what you will need if you are sheltering at home:

• Torch with spare batteries or a self-charging torch
• Radio with spare batteries
• Wind and waterproof clothing, sun hats, strong outdoor shoes
• First aid kit and essential medicines
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Pet supplies
• Toilet paper and large rubbish bags for your emergency toilet
• Face and dust masks
• Non-perishable food (canned or dried food)
• Food, formula and drinks for babies and small children
• Water for drinking
• Water for washing and cooking
• A primus or gas barbeque to cook on
• A can opener.

If you rely on power, for example for medical reasons, please speak to your GP or medical provider about your needs and emergency plan.

Plan a getaway kit in case you are required to evacuate

While you may not have all these items in one place, it is important to know where in your home they are. In some emergencies, you may need to evacuate in a hurry.

• Torch and radio with spare batteries
• Any special needs such as hearing aids and spare batteries, glasses or mobility aids
• Emergency water and easy-to-carry food rations such as energy bars and dried foods. If you have any special dietary requirements, ensure you have extra supplies
• First aid kit and essential medicines
• Essential items for infants or young children such as formula and food, nappies and a favourite toy
• Change of clothes (wind/waterproof clothing and strong outdoor shoes)
• Toiletries – towel, soap, toothbrush, sanitary items, toilet paper
• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Face and dust masks
• Pet supplies.

Check in with your friends and neighbours

In an emergency you are not on your own, you’re with your community. Now is a good time to connect with your neighbours and exchange contact details so you'll be ready if an emergency situation occurs. Plus, it can make everyday life much more enjoyable!

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