When the initial threat of danger has passed, you should listen to the radio for instructions. Your first priority is your own safety and the safety of your family, friends, neighbours and colleagues.
Listen to the radio for instructions. The main channels that will be used during emergencies are:
Plan ahead so you know how to stay safe after a disaster. Your first priority is your own safety and the safety of your family, friends, neighbours and colleagues.
If it is safe to do so, and you are physically able to provide assistance, you may be able to help the people around you:
Your own safety must be your first priority. Do not attempt to rescue trapped or buried people. Regular First Aid training(external link) is essential to maintain the skills you will need to provide help to the injured after an emergency.
Be aware of exhaustion. Don't try to do too much at once. Set priorities and pace yourself. Get enough rest.
Be aware of new safety issues created by the disaster. Watch for :
Inform the Council about health and safety issues, including:
If you are not safe in your home you may need to evacuate or be asked to evacuate to an emergency centre. Listen to the radio, or check this website to find out which emergency centres are open following an emergency. Remember to take your getaway kit, including important personal documents and essential medications etc, with you when you leave your home.
A Civil Defence Centre (CDC) is a central place for the coordination of community emergency response. It is opened and managed by local Civil Defence Emergency Management volunteers for anyone requiring assistance or information.
Our volunteers may open a CDC at a number of sites across Christchurch and Banks Peninsula as needed during an emergency. In outer areas such as Kainga, Brooklands, and Little River, Akaroa and remote parts of Banks Peninsula, the CDC may be located at a local school or community hall.
Even though you will be able to get assistance at a CDC, you still need to plan to be self-sufficient.
Once you have checked on your household and neighbours, you may want to go to a CDC:
Please note: The number and location of CDC’s will vary depending on the type, size and scale of the event. Listen to the radio to follow official advice during an emergency.
During an emergency please listen to your radio or check social media to find out where your local Civil Defence Centre will be.
Community Emergency Hubs are a place for the community to gather and coordinate their response locally. Ask your community now where the emergency hub will be.
