Before the cyclone season

check the roof and eaves of your home are secure

trim tree branches well clear of your home

preferably, fit window shutters or at least, metal screens

clear your property of loose material that could blow about to cause injury or damage during extreme winds

find out about 'Cyclone Watches and Warnings'

in case of a storm surge warning, know your nearest safe high ground and the best access route to it

prepare an emergency kit containing:

a portable radio, torch and spare batteries;

stocks of fresh water and canned food, and a can opener;

matches, fuel lamp, portable stove, cooking gear, utensils, can opener and waterproof bags;

a first aid kit, manual and masking tape for windows.

Keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display.

Upon cyclone warning

store loose items inside. Put wooden or plastic outdoor furniture in your pool. Fill bins and boats with water

fuel your car and park it under solid cover

close shutters or board-up or heavily tape all windows. Stay inside, with pets. Draw curtains and secure doors

pack an evacuation kit of warm clothing, essential medications, valuables, papers, photos and mementoes in waterproof bags, to be taken with your emergency kit

listen to your local radio/TV for further information

On warning of local evacuation

based on predicted wind speeds and storm surge heights, evacuation may be necessary

official advice will be given on local radio/TV regarding safe routes and when to move

wear strong shoes (not thongs) and clothing for protection

lock your home, switch off power, gas, water, and take your evacuation and emergency kits

if evacuating inland (out of town) take pets and leave early to avoid heavy traffic, flooding and wind hazards

if evacuating to a local shelter or higher ground, follow police and State/Territory Emergency Services directions

When cyclone strikes

disconnect all electrical appliances and turn off gas

stay inside and shelter (well clear of windows) in the strongest part of the building, ie cellar, internal hallway or bathroom. Keep evacuation and emergency kits with you

if the building starts to break up, protect yourself with matresses, rugs or blankets under a strong table or bench or hold onto a solid fixture, eg a water pipe

listen to your portable radio for updates and advice

beware the calm 'eye'. If the wind suddenly drops, don't assume the cyclone is over, violent winds will soon resume from the opposite direction. Wait for the official 'all clear'

if driving, stop - but well away from the sea and clear of trees, powerlines and streams. Stay in the vehicle

After the cyclone

don't go outside until officially advised it is safe

check for gas leaks. Don't use electric appliances if wet

listen to local radio for official warnings and advice

if you have to evacuate, or did so earlier, don't return until advised. Use a recommended route and don't rush

beware of fallen powerlines, damaged bridges, buildings and trees, and don't enter the flood waters

heed all warnings and don't go sight-seeing

don't make unnecessary telephone calls