Cyclone and severe flooding checklists

Unpredictable and powerful storms are a part of life in the Territory so it's important to be prepared.

Simple planning now could help you and your family in a natural disaster. Prepare a household disaster plan and evacuation plan. Keep a list of emergency numbers and make sure important documents (passports and identification) as well as cash are safe in waterproof containers.

These checklists will help to ensure the continued supply of power and water services to your home during a cyclone or flood:

Preparation checklist

• Tidy up unsecured objects in your home and yard
• Trim loose or dying branches from trees. However never trim trees close to or touching powerlines, call Power and Water for advice.
• Install a surge protector in your home to protect sensitive electronic equipment.

Before a cyclone or severe flooding

• Have a cyclone kit ready. Full cyclone kit lists can be found at www.securent.nt.gov.au.
• Fill containers, including bath and sinks with water in case supply is cut.
• If you are evacuated, turn the electricity off at the main switchboard and water at the meter.
• Turn off and unplug electrical appliances. Such as TV, DVD or VCR aerial cables.
• Check that your overflow relief gully (ORG) is clear.
• Remove any rainwater or stormwater connections to sewer to minimise potential for sewage overflows.

During a cyclone or severe flooding

• Listen to a portable radio for weather updates or use websites such as www.securent.nt.gov.au or www.bom.gov.au to track weather events.
• Don't use electrical appliances that are wet or damaged.
• Don't use a landline phone during a storm, use a mobile.

After a cyclone or severe flooding

• Stay away from fallen powerlines. Always assume they are 'live' and dangerous. Report them immediately to our emergency number 1800 245 090.
• If the power is out, follow us on Twitter via your mobile phone or laptop (@PowerWaterCorp), use our website (powerwater.com.au) or listen to a portable radio for official advice and power restoration information. 
• If the power is out, never connect a portable generator to the electrical wiring of your house or office unless an isolating switch has been permanently installed by a licensed electrical contractor.  Appliances can be plugged directly into the generator.
• Don't use electrical appliances that have been wet or damaged. Have them checked by a licensed electrical contractor.
• Take extra care around your switchboard if it is outdoors, wear synthetic or rubber soled shoes. If you are in any doubt about the switchboard's safety, call your licensed electrical contractor.
• If you experience tingles or shocks from an electrical appliance or water tap, call us immediately on 1800 245 090, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Also call your licensed electrical contractor to check your electrical wiring immediately.
• If your house or business sustains damage preventing the reconnection of power, have a Northern Territory licensed electrical contractor repair electrical damage. Notify Power and Water on 1800 245 092 when repairs are complete and you have been issued a Certificate of Compliance (if necessary) so power can be restored.
• Do not go near any dislodged sewer access opening (manholes).
• Do not use an excessive amount of water to wash down or clean up after the event.