Earthquake.
Many Australians underestimate the risk of earthquakes. While large earthquakes are rare, smaller tremors are relatively common. Earthquakes can occur suddenly and can cause significant damage. Aftershocks can follow an earthquake and may cause further damage to already weakened structures.
If you are impacted by an earthquake:
Follow all warnings and advice issued by emergency services.
Contact 000 if you are in danger.
Evacuate immediately if directed by authorities.
Stay away from windows, heavy furniture and unsecured objects.
Returning to your property and vehicle
Do not return to your property until emergency services have confirmed it is safe to do so.
If your property has been impacted by an earthquake, carefully assess affected areas before entering.
Contact us as soon as practicable to report damage and begin your claim.
Develop an evacuation plan specific to your home and local area.
Practise the Drop, Cover, Hold on techniques at least once a year. Identify the safest routes to your nearest community support centre or evacuation point.
Keep an up-to-date list of contact details for family, friends, schools and your support network.
Establish or confirm your household’s safe meeting point.
Make sure your emergency kit can be easily and safely reached.
Drop, Cover, and Hold On while staying aware of your surroundings and avoiding hazards.
Stay away from windows, exterior walls, fireplaces and heavy furniture that could fall.
Avoid running outside or using elevators during quakes and tremors.
Follow instructions from emergency services and local authorities.
For emergency assistance, contact the State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500.
In a life-threatening emergency, call 000.
Be prepared for aftershocks.
Continue to follow instructions from emergency services and local authorities.
Avoid entering damaged buildings until they have been assessed as safe.
Watch for hazards such as fallen power lines, damaged roads and gas leaks.
Take photos of any damage when safe to do so and keep records of all damage for your insurance claim.
