Knowing the Warning Signs for Business

In 2021 a new Australian Warning System was rolled out across the country, providing consistent icons and language for bushfire, flood, storm, extreme heat and severe weather warnings.

At Resilient Ready, we’ve been working with businesses in Victoria through our Disaster Ready Phillip Island + Bass Coast, and Great Ocean Road programs to build resilient business communities by upskilling participants and building greater local connections.

When there’s a disruption or disaster in your region, it’s important that you understand the emergency warnings.

By understanding each warning level, you can better plan your response triggers as a business owner and operator.

Across Australia, no matter where you live and work, the three warning levels are now:

• Advice: An incident has started. There is no immediate danger. Stay up to date in case the situation changes.
• Watch and Act: There is a heightened level of threat. Conditions are changing and you need to start taking action now to protect you and your family.
• Emergency Warning: An Emergency Warning is the highest level of warning. You may be in danger and need to take action immediately. Any delay now puts your life at risk.

So what else can you do to be prepared?

• Work out what triggers would lead you and your team to close or evacuate your business.Make a plan, and ensure everyone is on the same page in your business.
• Download the applicable emergency apps for your State or Territory onto your phone. These apps give you the timeliest information for unfolding disasters.
• Keep a battery-operated radio handy, tuned into ABC radio, which is the official emergency broadcaster in Australia.

If you’re unsure of what to do, reach out to your local emergency services, who can advise on how to prepare for disasters.

By staying up to date on what’s happening in your area, you can make better decisions about the operation of your business and the safety of your customers and clients.

Resilient Ready is a social enterprise delivering innovative solutions to enable every organisation to thrive before, during and after disasters. To keep updated on news and current projects, sign up to our newsletter.