Defend yourself against Mother Nature

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 11, Issue 510, 2 November 1993, Page 8

Defend yourself against Mother Nature

NATURAL HAZARDS The Ruapehu District faces three immediate dangers: the most obvious, a volcanic eruption; earthquakes, and flooding. The region boasts a highly-trained team well versed in local hazards and how to survive when - not if - they happen. Headquarters The Waimarino area has a dedicated headquarters situated in the District Council Service Centre, Miro Street, Ohakune. Although it is not set up on a permanent basis it can be set up in a short period of time utilizing the council office equipment. This headquarters services the entire Waimarino Ward. The headquarters is

run by volunteers with an area manager designated to manage the overall operations. Responsibilities include liaising with the local Emergency Services and organising rescue, evacuation, and welfare and the many other problems that may arise during the disaster. At all times leading up to, during and immediately after a Civil Defence emergency, the Civil Defence Controller for the district is in charge. Co-ordinators Over the years one thing that has become evident is that small communities can become isolated. During this time leadership within the community is essential. In normal circumstances the Controller

for the District is totally responsible for all matters of control and coordination during the disaster, but when the community becomes isolated, that is no radio or telephone communications and no road access, a Co-ordinator has the authority to take on the powers of the Controller. The Waimarino' s designated Co-ordinator is Ellen Gould. Volunteers Civil defence here in the Ruapehu district needs more volunteers. Those who are willing to offer assistance during a natural disaster can contact Ellen Gould, the Waimarino Co-ordina-tor, through the Ruapehu District Council. The only thing we as residents can be sure of, is that disaster will strike - the trick is to be prepared for when it does. WHEN A FLOOD THREATENS: Listen to your radio for information. Follow official civil defence advice and instructions. When floodwaters get close to your home, disconnect electrical appliances and move valuables, clothing, food,

medicines and chemicals above the likely reach of floodwater, if possible. If you have to leave your home, turn electricity and gas off at the mains. Don't go into floodwaters alone. Don't go sightseeing through flooded areas. Don't drink floodwater, it could be contaminated and bad for your health.

EARTHQUAKE • Keep cairn - give yourself time to think. • Take cover - Get under a table. Hold onto it to prevent it moving away from you. • Crouch beside a solid structure. It may well be a wall. Keep away from glass doors or windows. • Brace yourself in a doorway. Hold onto the door to prevent it slamming into you. • Do not attempt to run nutside - vou mav be

• Stay clear of high walls or power lines. • If you are driving - slow down, pull over to the side of the road and stop the car. Stay in the vehicle - it will provide you with some cover. ERUPTION • Breathe through a handkerchief or dry cloth to block out falling ash. Those with respiratory conditions should stay inside. Protect eyes with goggles and cover the head

with a hood or cape to keep ash clear of face. A scarf around the head and neck will also assist. • Keep the body completely clothed where possible. Ankle or calf length footwear is preferable. • Protect the food of animals from ash fall and seek advice about grazing animals. Keep a water supply free of ash if at all possible. I N ALL INSTANCES, MAKE YOUR WAY TO