Steps to Take When Confronted by Severe Weather

Natural calamities like foods, cyclones, and fres are part of the Australian reality, emphasizing the importance of knowing what steps to take before, during, and after such events.

The recent spate of extreme weather incidents across Australia, including bushfres, foods, and storms, underscores the potential for widespread damage and human casualties during natural disasters.

Events like Cyclone Jasper in Far North Queensland, accompanied by heavy rainfall, and the ongoing bushfres in various states emphasize the critical need for preparedness, prompt emergency response, and adequate insurance coverage.

To assist in such situations, here are crucial guidelines for actions before, during, and after emergencies:

Preparation:

• Stay updated: Remain informed about weather forecasts and alerts issued by local authorities. Utilize emergency alert systems on mobile devices, pay heed to offcial announcements via radio and television, especially

ABC Local Radio during emergencies.

• Emergency kit: Assemble a comprehensive kit containing non-perishable food, water, medications, essential documents, and frst-aid supplies to sustain your family for at least 72 hours.

• Evacuation planning: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and emergency shelter locations. Develop a family emergency plan, establish communication methods, and decide on meeting points. Consider vulnerable neighbours or family members who may need assistance evacuating.

• Property securing: Take precautions by securing loose items, reinforcing doors and windows, and trimming branches before storms. In case of fre threats, reduce potential fuel sources and take preventive measures.

Insurance Claims:

• Document damage: Capture clear photographs and videos of property damage and prepare a detailed list of affected items.

• Inform insurer: Report the incident to your insurance company

Implementing Standing Orders for Students on Public Transport: A Benefcial Move?

Offering a seat to someone in need while on a train, tram, or bus extends beyond mere etiquette— it’s often a legal obligation in certain states.

Previously, it was unquestionable that a child would relinquish their seat for an adult, particularly an elderly or incapacitated individual, if seating was limited on public transport.

However, contemporary scenarios often depict seniors, expectant mothers, or individuals with mobility aids standing while young passengers, notably students, remain seated.

The rationale behind younger individuals yielding their seats varies, from notions of courtesy and respect to practical considerations and economic arguments— given that children and students pay reduced fares, some argue they are less entitled to a comfortable ride.

Yet, what transpires when someone declines to vacate their seat for a person in need? Policies governing this conduct diverge across transport authorities nationwide.

In New South Wales: Transport New South Wales advocates for offering seats to those in greater need, including seniors, individuals with disabilities or reduced mobility, pregnant women, or those accompanying children. Although it’s not an offense to withhold a seat, intentionally disrupting others’ comfort is legally prohibited— similar to acts like placing feet on seats, smoking, alcohol consumption, obstructing doors, or using offensive language. On buses, drivers can request passengers in priority seating to relocate for those requiring it.

In Queensland: Translink in Queensland aligns with the Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport 2002, mandating priority seating on public transport for passengers with disabilities, seniors, expectant mothers, and adults accompanying children. Although no legislative mandate exists for students to vacate seats for others, the Passenger Code of Conduct encourages leaving priority seats free. It emphasizes that not all disabilities are evident and encourages kindness and courtesy toward fellow travellers. While students traveling on concession fares are suggested to yield their seats to adults in crowded situations, this remains a matter of etiquette without a legal obligation in Queensland. promptly, providing necessary information and inquiring about required documentation.

• Assessment: Insurance assessors will evaluate the damage; cooperate and provide any additional information needed.

• Maintain records: Keep records of all communication with the insurer, including receipts, emails, and invoices supporting your claim.

• Temporary accommodation: If your residence becomes uninhabitable, maintain records of additional living expenses incurred during temporary accommodation.

Community Support:

• Seek assistance:

Don’t hesitate to seek community support during challenging times. Organizations like the Salvation Army (13 72 58) offer practical aid, while Lifeline (13 11 14) provides support for those in need of someone to talk to.

During diffcult times, the Australian community stands united in lending support to one another, demonstrating a willingness to assist in any way possible. Organizations like the Salvation Army and Lifeline are ready resources for practical assistance and emotional support when needed.