As the weather warms, it is important to make sure you and the people who support you know what to do if a bushfire or other emergency affects your area. Preparing early can help you stay safe, make calm decisions and ensure your health, mobility and support needs are considered.
If you live in or near a bushfire-prone area, discuss your plan with your family, neighbours and support network. Decide when you will leave, where you will go, how you will get there and who will help you. Leaving early is usually the safest option, particularly for older people and those with health, mobility or support needs. Do not assume emergency services will be able to reach you or provide transport during a bushfire.
Prepare a small emergency bag in case you need to leave home. Include:
- regular medicines, prescriptions and important health information
- glasses, hearing aids and mobility equipment
- identification and important contact details
- your mobile phone and charger
- water, snacks and a change of clothing
- essential items for a pet or assistance animal.
Follow official emergency information and local warnings about fire danger, road access, electricity and communications. In a life-threatening emergency, call 000. Plan for evacuation, transport and ongoing care, as emergency services may be delayed or unavailable during a major event.
How HammondCare can help
HammondCare is preparing for the higher-risk season by reviewing the needs of clients who may be particularly affected by an emergency. This includes checking contact details and support arrangements, identifying individual risks and essential or time-critical services, and planning how care may continue when it is safe and practical. Your emergency arrangements are included in your care plan. Please review them and contact your Care Partner or CHSP Coordinator if they are not current or accurate.
Your HammondCare team member may speak with you about:
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the emergencies that could affect your local area
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who you would contact and who could help you leave
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any medicines, equipment, personal care or transport you may need
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which services are most important during an emergency
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what should happen if roads are closed or we cannot safely reach your home
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whether your contact and emergency information is current.
During a bushfire, HammondCare will consider official warnings, affected clients and services, road access and team member safety. We may contact you, prioritise essential support or change a visit if travel or attendance is unsafe. Any changes will be carefully considered, with your safety, preferences and continuity of care in mind.
If your circumstances, contacts or emergency arrangements change, please tell your HammondCare care team so we can update your information and plan with you. Preparing together now can make a real difference when conditions change quickly.
