Prepare for emergencies

Planning for an emergency

We work in collaboration with emergency service organisations to ensure the safety of our community. The roles and responsibilities of local government in emergency management are detailed in the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989.

Murray River Council is required to appoint a Local Emergency Management Officer (LEMO) to act as a coordinator and liaise with other agencies such as NSW Police, Fire and Rescue and State Emergency Services.

Council also reviews and updates the Local Emergency Management Plan (EMPLAN) which details arrangements for, prevention of, preparation for, response to and recovery from emergencies within our local government area.

Emergency preparation

Emergencies can happen at any time, it is vital that you know the risks within your area. If an emergency occurs there may be limited capacity for emergency services organisations to assist. It is important that you have a plan so you can be self-reliant.

Create a household emergency plan

Examples of household emergency plans can be found at:

• Australian Red Cross
• NSW Rural Fire Service
• NSW Fire and Rescue
• NSW State Emergency Services

Plan to evacuate

It is important that you consider the different emergency situations that you may find yourself in and where you might evacuate to if a particular scenario occurs. It is essential that you remain flexible during an emergency situation. Ensure that you follow any directions given to you from Emergency Service Organisations.

Reduce the risk to your home

There are some simple steps that you can take to reduce hazards on your property and limit the potential harm to your home and its occupants.

• clean out gutters and downpipes
• trim overhead trees and branches
• secure or put away loose items
• check the roof is in good repair
• do a home safety audit and check your smoke alarms are working
• make sure your home and contents insurance is up to date
• have a fire fighting and evacuation plan
• act on your plan

During an emergency it is important to stay calm and follow directions given to you by the Emergency Services.

Related information

• State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989 
• Local Emergency Management Plan (EMPLAN)
• Murray River Council Local Emergency Management Plan

The agencies below provide useful information to help you stay informed in the event of a natural disaster or emergency.

• For all emergencies NSW Police - call 000
• Storms, floods and tsunamis NSW State Emergency Services 132 500
• Bush fire related incidents NSW Rural Fire Service call 1800 NSW RFS (1800 679 737)
• Fire emergencies, hazardous materials incidents and community fire safety NSW Fire and Rescue call 000