Auckland Council is urging households to use daylight saving weekend to get emergency ready, with a new campaign reminding families that disasters don’t wait for an invitation.

The Get Ready Emergency Preparedness campaign, running until 29 September, encourages Aucklanders to make or update their plans, check supplies, and know their local risks.

For Coasties, it’s a timely reminder as daylight saving begins this Sunday.

“Emergencies don’t send calendar invitations, they just show up, sometimes in the middle of the night,” says Adam Maggs, General Manager of Auckland Emergency Management.

“Having a plan and essential emergency supplies ready means you and your whānau can stay safer and connected, no matter what comes your way.”

That plan could be as simple as agreeing on how to stay in touch, where to meet if separated, and what to do if power, water or internet suddenly go.

Supplies should cover a three-day “indoor camping trip” with basics like food, water, torches, first aid and pet needs.

Maggs says most households already own many of these items.

“You don’t have to have them all in one place, as long as you know where they are and can find them in a hurry or in the dark.”

For Hibiscus Coast homes, it’s also a good time to clear gutters and trim branches before the next storm rolls through.

Whether it’s a power cut, earthquake or tsunami, taking a few steps now could make all the difference later.

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