Types of emergency
It is important to know the types of emergency that are most likely to occur in your area so you can effectively prepare for them.
Emergencies are naturally occurring, or human caused events, that disrupt services, routines and can impact on our health and wellbeing.
Heatwave
Three days or more of high maximum and minimum temperatures, that are unusual for a particular location, is considered a heatwave. Extreme heat events are becoming more frequent and pose a significant risk to people’s health and wellbeing.
Extreme storm
Storms can happen at any time of year and can cause major damage.
Power failure and utility outages
During some emergencies, power outages and the loss of other utilities such as gas or water supplies could occur for extended periods.
Fire
Building fires can occur anywhere but are of particular concern in high density areas like cities where many people live in multi-story buildings.
Human disease
The potential effects of infectious disease outbreaks, such as a flu pandemic or food poisoning can be extremely serious.
Earthquake
An earthquake is the shaking and vibration of the ground caused by underground movement along a fault plane or by volcanic activity. Earthquakes happen without warning.