As the lights go out on this year’s #30Days30Ways AUS campaign, we hope you’re feeling more prepared for emergencies and disasters!

Overlooking preparation is all too easy. The possibility of a severe weather event or a cyber-attack may seem unlikely, but the chance of your entire world being turned upside down is a genuine threat.

The campaign is over for another year, but you can go back and revisit any of the tips right here on our campaign website, and on Facebook, Instagram and X @30days30waysAUS

We’ll continue to share tips and advice throughout the year, so stay ‘tuned’ and we’ll help you, your family, friends & colleagues prepare for potential emergencies.

Together, we’ll build a more resilient community to reduce their impact and stay safe.

No matter what nature throws our way; storm, bushfire, or flood, it’s important to be prepared for a power outage.

On Day 29 of 30Days30WaysAUS, SA Power Networks and SA Health are sharing their advice to help you get ready and stay safe and well when the lights - and more - go out!

⚡ Safety first! Stay at least 10 metres away from fallen powerlines, and those damaged by fire or flood waters. Your safety is a priority.

📱 Stay connected. Follow SA Power Networks on Facebook, Instagram and X for updates and sign up for outage notifications affecting your property at https://pamp.apps.sapowernetworks.com.au/

🩹 Stock up on emergency kit essentials like non-perishable food, bottled water and a first aid kit. Don’t forget a battery-powered radio, torch and extra batteries.

⚡ Ensure you have a generator or alternative power source on standby if you rely on medical equipment or a water pump that needs power.

🔋 Keep your mobile phones, power banks and other essential devices fully charged.

⚡ Do you know where your property’s switchboard is? If your power goes off, check safety switches are in the 'ON' position to see if the outage is just a tripped switch. It’s also important to know how to manually open electric garages and gates to exit your home during a power outage.

📱 Draw up a communication plan for staying in touch with family and neighbours during an outage. Make sure everyone knows the plan and the emergency contacts!

Stay informed, stay safe, and be Power Outage Ready!

To learn more, visit: SA Power Networks

A power outage could impact your health if you rely on power for medical equipment or critical pharmacy-dispensed medication. 

☀️ As the weather gets warmer, the risk of an unplanned power outage increases.

💊 Having an emergency management plan in place is vital.

🩺 Speak to your GP about planning for hot weather.

To learn more, visit: sahealth.sa.gov.au/healthyintheheat

Adelaide is the most earthquake-prone capital city in Australia!

On Day 28 of 30Days30Ways, the Department for Infrastructure and Transport is sharing its advice on preparing for earthquakes.  

Locate safe places in your home or business to DROP, COVER and HOLD.

Look for strong tables or desks that can provide shelter from falling debris.

Look for places next to an interior wall away from:

✅Windows that could shatter

✅Tall furniture and hanging objects that could tip, fall or drop on you

✅Fireplaces with chimneys that could fall through the roof

Fix potential hazards in your home or business:

✅ Install latches on cupboards

✅ Secure top-heavy furniture and appliances to walls

✅ Keep wall and ceiling fixtures away from where you sleep or sit

✅ Securely strap water heaters to the wall

✅ Store flammable or hazardous materials on low shelves or on the floor

✅ Store heavy or fragile items on bottom shelves

ℹ️ Get qualified advice to ensure your home complies with the Building Code of Australia and fix any potential weaknesses.

🏚️ Make sure your insurance covers you for earthquakes.

ℹ️ For information on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake, visit: Earthquake Safety Tips

ℹ️ Visit the Geoscience Australia Earthquakes@GA website for information on recent earthquakes.

🖱️ Click on the 'Felt Report' link at the top right of the map to report an earthquake.

On Day 27 of 30Days30WaysAUS we’re getting Extreme Heat Ready.

South Australia’s temperatures are vast and variable. While a few 44-degree days in a row may be normal in Port Augusta, it’s not the norm for Mount Gambier, which is why the SA State Emergency Service issues specific warnings for 15 districts across South Australia.

There are three types of heatwave warnings you need to be aware of:

☀️ Low-intensity heatwaves.

☀️ Severe heatwaves.

☀️ Extreme heatwaves.

For advice on how to prepare for heatwaves, visit the SA SES Heatwave webpage

Healthy in the Heat

It’s important to know the signs of heat exhaustion.

🤒 You can develop a heat-related illness and become unwell very quickly.

👴🏽 Older people, people with chronic diseases, and people working or exercising 🏃🏻‍♀️ in a hot environment are most at risk.

🥵 When left untreated, heat exhaustion can turn into heat stroke, which is a life-threatening emergency.

🚑 If you notice someone displaying symptoms, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

For information on staying healthy in the heat, visit: www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/healthyintheheat

Pets, Livestock, and Wildlife in the Heat

As the mercury rises, it’s crucial to take extra care of pets, livestock, and the native wildlife on your property.

Did you know animals can drink up to twice their usual water intake during high temperatures?

Extreme heat can have damaging effects on animal health and well-being.

✅ Check on pets and livestock daily.

✅ Look for signs of heat stress like sweating, panting, and drooling.

✅ If you’re away from your property, arrange for someone else to check on your animals.

Be prepared for heatwaves from the start of October.

For more information on caring for pets and livestock during a heatwave, visit:

PIRSA

RSPCA SA

Did you know that floods are one of the most damaging disasters for our state’s economy?

The SA State Emergency Service has partnered with us on Day 26 of 30Days30WaysAUS to share their flood preparation tips.

🏘️ Know your local area - is there a history of flooding?

🗺️ Learn where to go for safety and the safest routes.

📱 Keep a list of emergency contacts handy.

🔦 Pack an emergency kit, including a battery-powered radio, torch, and spare batteries.

📃 Check that your insurance policy is current and covers you for flood damage.

📱 Call 132 500 for emergency SES flood assistance.

For flood preparation tips, visit: www.ses.sa.gov.au/flood

Do you live in a flood-risk area? The Department for Environment and Water lists known areas across South Australia with a higher risk of flooding, including:

💧 Gawler River catchment

💧 Brown Hill and Keswick Creeks catchment

💧 Port Adelaide

💧 Lower Onkaparinga River

💧 Numbered Creeks (First to Fifth) in the River Torrens catchment

💧 Below Lock 1 on the River Murray.

But this list is not exhaustive.

To get flood-ready and find out more about flood risk, visit: Department for Environment and Water

The Bureau of Meteorology issues a Flood Watch when there’s a developing situation that could lead to flooding.

Download the BOM Weather app & set up notifications, so you know when flood watches & warnings are issued for your area.

http://www.bom.gov.au/app/

Mother Nature’s storms can bring rain, wind, hail, or lightning, causing chaos.

Even if your home isn’t affected, storms can disrupt life by cutting off access and power. Knowing what to do is your lifeline.

On Day 25, we’ve partnered with the SA State Emergency Service for some helpful storm preparation tips:

🌪️ Secure loose items in your yard.

💧 Clear your gutters, downpipes and drains to prevent blockages.
🌲 Trim trees and branches that could fall on your home or property.
🏠 Fix any damage to your roof.
📃 Check your insurance policy is current and covers you for storm damage.

For more information on preparing for storms, visit ses.sa.gov.au/storm

Many South Australians have been impacted by storms or know someone who has.

On Day 25 the Bureau of Meteorology shares its expert knowledge on storms.

Severe weather can threaten lives and cause significant damage and destruction.

It can bring hazardous weather conditions, such as:

⛈️ Lightning

⚪ Large or giant hail

🌪️ Tornadoes

🌧️ Very heavy rainfall that may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding.

🏚️ Damaging or destructive winds

🌊 Abnormally high tides

To build your severe weather knowledge and be better prepared when hazardous weather looms, visit: http://www.bom.gov.au/knowyourweather/

Download the BOM Weather app and set up notifications so you know when warnings are issued for your area. This includes warnings of any severe weather: bom.gov.au/app/

As we enter the last week of 30Days30WaysAUS, it’s time to get Bushfire Ready!

We’re excited that the Country Fire Service (CFS) has partnered with us on Day 24 of 30Days30Ways to share their expert knowledge and advice.

🔥 Fires can threaten suddenly and without warning.

Visit the CFS website to learn how to:

⏱️ Create your 5-minute bushfire plan

🏡 Prepare your property for bushfire season

🎒 Pack your emergency kit

🔥 Check your local fire danger ratings daily

📱 Decide how you’ll stay informed

✅ Get prepared for the bushfire season now! Visit: cfs.sa.gov.au/home/

Do you produce grain? Look after livestock? Manage vineyards or orchards?

🔥To reduce your bushfire risk ahead of summer, you can:

✅ Create your 5-minute bushfire plan

✅ Create firebreaks around your property

✅ Choose plants that can help reduce fire risk

✅ Ensure easy access to your property and water

✅ Prepare firefighting equipment and backup supplies

✅ Plan for livestock care

✅ Conduct burn-offs with appropriate planning and approvals

👉 Learn more at: https://ow.ly/8UIf50SSAYJ

We’re dedicating Day 23 of 30Days30Ways to the Australian Warning System (AWS).

The AWS is a national approach to warning the public about emergencies. It uses a set of standardised icons and warning levels to communicate the severity of an emergency and the actions you should take.

The AWS is used for various emergencies, including bushfires, floods, storms, cyclones, extreme heat, and severe weather.

Understanding how it works can help you stay safe and make informed decisions when it matters most.

The Three Levels of Warning

1. Advice: This warning level indicates there is an incident in your area, and you should stay informed and monitor conditions. It is important to stay aware and be prepared to act if the situation changes.

2. Watch and Act: This warning level means there is a heightened level of threat. You need to act now to protect yourself and others. This could involve moving to a safer location or implementing your emergency plan.

3. Emergency Warning: This is the highest level of warning. It signifies that you are in immediate danger, and you must act immediately to survive. Follow the instructions provided by emergency services without delay.

Why is the AWS Important?

The AWS provides a clear and consistent way to communicate the level of threat and the actions you need to take. By familiarising yourself with the warning levels and icons, you can quickly understand the severity of an emergency and respond appropriately. This can save lives and reduce the impact of disasters on our community.

For more information on the AWS, visit: AIDR

Today is World Car Free Day - an event celebrated in cities across the globe to encourage people to try other forms of transport.

On Day 22 of 30Days30WaysAUS, it’s the perfect day to focus on bike riding, and the Department for Infrastructure and Transport have partnered with us to help you get ready to ride.

Being prepared is key when taking to the road or paths on a bike, from checking it’s roadworthy, to knowing the rules and taking steps to prevent bike theft.

You should always make sure your bike and bike gear are safe and roadworthy.

🚲 Check your bike is the right size for you. If you’re not sure, ask at a bike shop.

🔧Do a bike safety check. Either ask at a bike shop, or have a go yourself with guidance from this video: Six Steps to Bike Safety

⚖️ In Australia, you are required by law to wear a helmet with an Australian Standards sticker on the inside.

🔆Wear bright reflective clothing to increase your visibility, and closed toe shoes to protect your feet.

For more information on planning your route and understanding the road rules and laws for bicycle riders, visit: Cyclists - THINK! Road Safety (thinkroadsafety.sa.gov.au)

After your own safety, we know the welfare of your pets is a priority in an emergency.

☀️With summer and the bushfire 🔥season just around the corner, it’s important to plan before an emergency happens to ensure the safety of yourself, your family 👪 and your pets 🐶🐈 🐴

Our friends at RSPCA South Australia have put together some handy tips and advice for Day 21 of 30Days30Ways, to help you get started on your Pet Emergency Plan today!

For more information, visit: rspcasa

Everyone has a role to play in preparing for and responding to emergencies and disasters.

The whole family can get prepared with EmergencyRedi and Pillowcase Workshops.

EmergencyRedi Workshops

Australian Red Cross EmergencyRedi Workshops, co-created with NRMA Insurance, help you prepare for emergencies and take steps towards building resilience. Learn about the practical, psychological and social steps you can take to minimise their impact.

Register your interest in a FREE workshop: EmergencyRedi workshops | Australian Red Cross

Pillowcase Workshops

Children can also learn to cope and build mental strength to help their families. Australian Red Cross Pillowcase Workshops help children prepare for, cope with and respond to emergencies.

To find out more or register your interest, visit: Pillowcase Workshops | Australian Red Cross

How prepared are you? Have a go at the Red Cross Disaster Preparedness Quiz

On Day 19 of 30Days30Ways we’ve partnered with the South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service to help you get House Fire Ready.

A fire blanket is an effective and safe method for extinguishing a flammable liquid burning in a container. For example, oil or fat burning in a saucepan.

Kitchen fires involving cooking oils or fats, are common, so it’s essential to be prepared.

The South Australian Metropolitan Fire Service recommends:

✅ Installing a fire blanket on the wall near or close to a door leading out of the kitchen area, for easy access.

✅ Familiarising yourself with how to use the blanket so you know exactly what to do in an emergency.

✅ Replacing the fire blanket immediately after using it on a real fire.

✅ Checking your smoke alarm is less than 10 years old and in working order.

✅ Calling  ‘000’ in an emergency.

Safety Tips

Never attempt to carry a saucepan that’s on fire. It’s likely that the fire will flare up or that your movement will cause the flames to lap back towards you, possibly igniting clothing and causing you to drop the container and spread the fire.

Never attempt to use water to extinguish a cooking oil fire. The sudden expansion of water turning to steam will expel the burning liquid from the container igniting any nearby combustibles.

For more information on fire blankets and home fire safety, visit: MFS Brochures & Fact Sheets

In this month of preparedness, it’s important to prepare your car if you’re planning a road trip this summer.

🔧 Start by checking when your service is due and get it booked in with a certified mechanic.

🚘 Inspect all lights and signals.

🛞 Check tyre pressure and tread and replace tyres if necessary.

🔦 Check your vehicle emergency kit. It should have a first-aid kit, flashlight and reflective triangles.

Remember, regular maintenance is crucial for safe driving every day of the year.    

Do you have livestock on your property in South Australia?  

Having a Property Identification Code (PIC) is a crucial way to prepare your property for emergency situations.

 Your property must have a PIC if you have one or more:

🐴 horses, donkeys, mules

🐮 cattle, buffalo, bison

🐑 sheep

🐖 pigs

🐐 goats

🦌 deer

🐪 alpacas, llamas, camels

🐔 commercial poultry birds.

The PIC system is how the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) can contact you in the event of livestock disease outbreaks, bushfires or floods, or other animal emergencies.

👉 Register for a PIC or update your details today at: www.pir.sa.gov.au/pic

Disasters can strike at any time, but being ready makes all the difference.

On Day 16 of 30Days30WaysAUS, we’ve partnered with Community Justice Services SA to provide useful tips on getting your insurance in order.

• Know your policy inside out. Make sure to read your PDS and Certificate. 

• Check your sum insured, and confirm your coverage matches your needs.

• Keep records of your valuables and save information online. 

• Don’t hesitate to negotiate and speak up.

• Get expert advice if you’re unsure.

Make sure your home is insured before you need it!

For more information or assistance, get in contact with the Disaster Legal Support Program.

Visit: Community Justice Services SA

The Disaster Legal Support Program provides free legal help to communities at risk or impacted by disasters across South Australia.

On Day 15 it’s time to turn your attention to preparing your emergency kit.

There’s no time to pack during an emergency, so it’s important to get prepared.  

Think about the practical things you’ll need during and after an emergency. There are two types of items you should think about packing:

• Survival items - items that will help if you must leave quickly or stay isolated in your home.

• Recovery items - items that will limit disruption to your life after the emergency has passed. These will be more personal to your needs and situation.

The Australian Red Cross has helpful tips, including a downloadable packing checklist.

World First Aid Day 2024 focuses on First Aid and Sports, and St John SA has partnered with us to celebrate.

Whether you're playing a sport or cheering from the sidelines, first aid can be lifesaving.

From assessing a situation to performing CPR, knowing how to respond in an emergency can make all the difference.

It’s also important to have a well-stocked sports first aid kit to hand:

Preparedness - regularly check and restock your kits.

Expired items - medical supplies can expire or lose their effectiveness over time.

Used supplies - injuries and emergencies can deplete your kit.

Get prepared and keep your team in the game!

For more information on first aid courses and a variety of first aid kits, visit: stjohnsa.com.au

On Day 13 of 30Days30WaysAUS, Surf Life Saving SA is sharing expert advice on water safety.

For Surf Life Saving SA, water safety is a year-round priority. There are many ways for you and your loved ones to stay safe, and with awareness and the right actions we can all enjoy the best of South Australia’s waterways.

If you're heading to the beach, river, lake, pool or any other waterway, always plan ahead and know your limits. No one intends to get into trouble, but it happens too often.

When swimming along our coast, please make sure to swim at a patrolled location, during a patrolled time, between the red and yellow flags. Download the Beachsafe app to find your nearest location.

Avoid mixing swimming with alcohol or drugs, and always be aware of your surroundings, especially when using inflatables. Supervise children in, on and around the water, and wear a lifejacket when boating, rock fishing or paddling.

And finally, always look out for others.

Useful links:

Beach Safety Videos

A multilingual SLSSA Beach Safety Video Series, which address eight key beach safety lessons. Available in nine different languages

Beachsafe app

Includes current information and conditions for every beach in Australia. It shows patrol services, hazards and facilities as well as weather, swell and tide details.

On Day 12 of the campaign 30Days30WaysAUS is getting behind R U OK?

A lot can happen in a year, a month, a week. Whether it’s your friend, family member, colleague, partner, or teammate, the people you care about go through life’s ups and downs every day.

That’s why R U OK? is calling on everyone to Ask R U OK? Any Day because life happens every day.

New research has found 90% of people who are regularly asked R U OK? feel more supported, connected and cared about.

By checking in regularly with the people close to you, you can help prevent small things from becoming big things.

R U OK? Day is Thursday 12 September but you can Ask R U OK? Any Day.

Visit ruok.org.au for free tips and tools to build the R U OK? message across your year.

Who You Gonna Call?

Australia’s primary emergency call service number is Triple Zero (000), which can be dialled from any fixed or mobile phone, pay phones and certain VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services.

People with a hearing or speech impairment can dial 106 for the text-based relay service.

You should only call 000 when:

• Someone is seriously injured or in need of urgent medical help

• Your life or property is being threatened

• You have just witnessed a serious accident or crime

  In South Australia, if a situation isn’t urgent you can call:

• Non-urgent Police Assistance: 131 444

• Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000

• Flood and Storm emergencies: 132 500

• Feeling unwell: Call your local GP or the Health Direct line 1800 022 222
  

On Day 10 of 30Days30WaysAUS we’re focusing on the hot topic of lithium-ion battery safety.

Many portable devices today are powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery that can store a large amount of energy in a smaller amount of space than traditional batteries.

There has been a sharp rise in lithium-ion related incidents in South Australia over the past four years, with the Metropolitan Fire Service expecting this figure to rise.

Lithium-ion batteries power many households’ rechargeable devices, including:

• Toys

• Power tools

• E-bikes and e-scooters

• Mobility devices such as mobility scooters

• Mobile phones

• Smart watches and fitness trackers

• Laptops and tablets

• Vapes and e-cigarettes

• Electric and hybrid vehicles

• Home energy storage systems (home solar batteries)

Lithium-ion batteries pose a safety risk if not stored, used or disposed of properly, with the potential for reignition and fires releasing toxic gas.

Batteries that are incorrectly disposed of in regular household waste or home recycling bins, can cause fires during waste collection, transportation, handling, and processing.

How South Australians can help prevent incidents:

• Always charge larger devices, such as e-bikes, e-scooters and power tools that utilise lithium-ion batteries outside and away from combustible materials.

• A working smoke alarm or a heat alarm should be installed in any room, garage, or structure where lithium-ion batteries are stored.

• Fire services recommend smoke alarms that are connected to 240-volt mains power with a battery backup, or alarms powered by a 10-year long-life battery. When more than one smoke alarm is installed, they should be interconnected so that when one alarm activates, all alarms will sound.

• Always store lithium-ion batteries and products in cool, dry places and out of direct sunlight.

• Ensure safe charging practices for your device are adhered to.

• Always dispose of batteries at an approved recycling facility. Contact your local council for locations.

• If the battery or charger becomes damaged, discontinue use, and dispose correctly. Use a replacement battery or charger from the manufacturer.

• Do not touch a device or lithium-ion battery that is emitting vapour, gas or is on fire. Evacuate the area and call Triple Zero (000).  

For more information on lithium-ion Battery safety, visit the MFS Website

Reduce the Risk

Avian influenza is a contagious viral disease affecting birds. The disease also known as ‘bird flu’ spreads from wild birds to poultry. It is not known to be present in South Australia but if you have backyard birds you can help reduce the risk.

Help protect your poultry from disease:

Take action to minimise contact between poultry flocks and wild birds

•  Keep feed and water covered or inside sheds, so it’s difficult for wild birds to access

• Keep poultry sheds, yards, aviaries and equipment clean

•  Always wash your hands before and after handling birds and eggs

If you notice sick or dead birds, or see signs of disease, immediately call your vet or the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Find out more about avian influenza, including signs to look for and how to reduce risks at: https://ow.ly/k6Cp50SmUZ3

Stop the Spread

For Day Eight of 30Days30WaysAUS, we’ve partnered with SA Health to help Stop the Spread.

Remember to stay home if you’re sick to protect others from getting sick.

If you do need to leave your home, consider wearing a mask when indoors or on public transport. You should also consider wearing a mask if you’re:

•   Visiting a place where people are at higher risk of severe illness

•    At higher risk of severe illness and visiting a crowded indoor public place.

If you’re not feeling well and unsure what to do, call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak to a registered nurse.

Germs hate clean hands

We’re all experts in washing our hands, but a reminder never hurt anyone (unlike the germs you could be spreading).

Good hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of germs and viruses.

Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water, or use hand sanitiser made with at least 60% alcohol to help protect your friends and family from getting sick.

For more information, visit: sahealth.sa.gov.au/washwipecover

Mosquitoes can spread serious diseases

We all know mozzies can be a nuisance, but some can spread serious diseases when they bite.

The most common diseases spread by mosquitoes in South Australia are Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus.

Symptoms of these diseases include, fever, chills, rash, muscle aches, joint pain and swelling, and fatigue. Most people recover in a few weeks but sometimes symptoms can last for a few months or longer.

Murray Valley Encephalitis virus, Japanese Encephalitis virus and West Nile virus/Kunjin have also previously been detected in South Australia.

Infection with these diseases can occasionally result in inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). This can result in permanent neurological damage or death.

A vaccine is available for JEV, but there is no vaccine and no cure for any of these other viruses. Paracetamol can be used to treat the pain and fever.

Your best protection is to avoid being bitten. Cover up, repel and eliminate to fight the bite of mosquitoes.

Prepare Yourself

Using mosquito repellent is a simple thing you can do to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

There are important things to remember when applying repellent to make sure you’re protected.

• Apply evenly to all areas of exposed skin – a few dabs or spraying it on your clothes won’t protect you.

• Apply to skin after sunscreen.

• Re-apply regularly, especially after swimming or excessive sweating, as directed.

www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/FightTheBite

Prepare Your Home

The warmer months are approaching, which means we’ll be spending more time in the backyard.

Make sure you remove water that has pooled around your home, as this can create the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Here are our tips to help fight the bite around the home:

• Cover rainwater tanks, septic tank openings, wells or other large water containers with mosquito-proof mesh.

• Maintain roof gutters by removing leaves and debris so that water doesn’t pool

• Keep edges of dams clear of vegetation.

• Empty and refill birdbaths, and pet drinking water containers, at least once a week.

• Maintain and disinfect swimming pools.

• Empty or cover paddling pools at the end of each day.

Remember, mosquitoes can breed in still, fresh or salty water, and often in puddles and containers.

Prepare Your Livestock

When the weather starts to warm up, so does the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

Mosquitoes aren’t just a pest to us. If you have livestock, there are steps you can take to protect them too.

Mosquitoes can carry Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) which can cause serious illness in pigs, horses and occasionally in other animals.

You can play your part to reduce the risk of JEV

Check your property regularly to manage mosquitoes:

• Check animal drinking troughs for wrigglers.

• Empty other containers that can hold water.

• Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.

• Keep any vegetation near animal sheds trimmed back.

www.pir.sa.gov.au/je-virus

Today is Walk to Work Day and a perfect fit for Day Six of #30Days30WaysAUS.

Exercise is excellent for mental and physical resilience, which can help you persevere and adapt during tough times.

Walk to Work Day encourages employees and employers to build regular walking into their daily routines, promoting better health, less traffic and an improved environment.

Regular walking can help:

o  Reduce the risk of, or help manage blood sugar levels and type 2 diabetes

o    Maintain or improve blood pressure, cholesterol, and reduce cardiovascular disease

o    Prevent unhealthy weight gain and help with weight loss

o    Develop and maintain physical and mental wellbeing

Making some small changes to your daily routine like walking every day can make a big difference. For example, you could:

o    Walk to and from work

o    Drive to a ‘park and ride’ spot, and walk the rest of the way

o    Use the stairs instead of the lift or escalator

o    Get off public transport one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way

o    Park further away from your destination and walk

o    Go for a lunchtime walk

Find out more about Walk to Work Day.

Today is International Day of Charity

Every year, charities all over the world help to save and improve people’s lives - fighting disease, protecting children, and giving hope to many.

International Day of Charity mobilises people around the world to help others through volunteer and philanthropic activities.

Closer to home, the Country Fire Service Foundation was established to provide financial assistance to CFS volunteers and their families who have suffered through death, injury, loss or damage of property whilst volunteering for the South Australian CFS.

CFS volunteers give their time and risk their lives without compensation to protect our communities, so when they are impacted, the CFS Foundation steps in to support them.

Over the past 20 years the CFS Foundation has:

o    Distributed over $3.5 million in immediate financial support to CFS volunteers and their families who have suffered injuries, lost homes, property, livestock and in some cases, their lives.

o    Helped purchase vital equipment for CFS brigades such as defibrillators, thermal imaging cameras and atmospheric monitors.

o    Supported training programs and leadership courses.

o    Funded a CFS wellbeing officer to train CFS volunteers in mental health first aid so they can support each other.

o    Initiated many opportunities through its sponsors and other organisations to provide product discounts, items for brigades, tickets to events, and other special benefits for CFS volunteers.

o    Distributed Comfort Koalas to CFS brigades to have in their trucks and give to children who experience trauma in road accidents.

If you value the role of our CFS volunteers, please consider supporting the CFS Foundation, so it can continue its vital role in supporting CFS volunteers. You can:

o    Donate

o    Host a fundraiser

o    Set up payroll giving

o    Leave a legacy in your will

Visit www.cfsfoundation.org.au

For Day Two of 30Days30WaysAUS we’re partnering with ABC Radio.  

ABC Radio is an emergency broadcaster with a host of emergency preparedness tips and tools!

Action Plan - Create your emergency action plan. Visit abc.net.au/emergency for a range of useful resources.

Be safe – Be ready to monitor fire and severe weather in your area, bookmark the ABC’s incident map to stay up to date.

Connect with us  - Listen to ABC Radio for emergency warnings and updates. Find your frequency at reception.abc.net.au

It’s Day One of 30Days30WaysAUS, the start of an exciting month-long emergency and disaster preparedness journey.

Your first step is to download these four free App-tastic apps!

Alert SA App

The Alert SA app provides timely bushfire information in South Australia.

Watch Zones allow you to receive notifications for fires in your chosen area(s).

Download the Alert SA app and install your watch zones today.

Emergency+ App

When callers get into trouble in hard-to-find locations, the Emergency+ app gives them the option to tell the emergency services their location either in the form of their closest street address, their GPS coordinates or their what3words address.

what3words has divided the world into a grid of 3m squares and given each square a unique combination of 3 words – a what3words address. For example, bigger.legal.alien is the what3words address for emergency services headquarters.

Download the Emergency+ app and discover the what3words address for where you are right now!

BOM Weather App

The BOM Weather app gives you access to localised hourly and 7-day forecasts, radar and warnings.

If you're travelling, you can update your location to get notifications for that area, allowing you make informed decisions if there’s some severe weather on the way.

You can receive notifications for a whole range of hazards, including fire, flood, heatwaves and more.  

Download the BOM Weather app to stay informed.

BOM app explainer video

Get Prepared App

When emergencies happen there are lots of decisions that need to be made quickly.

The Get Prepared app helps you prepare for the unexpected by completing your emergency RediPlan in digital form. The easy-to-use app empowers you to make important decisions ahead of time.

Download the Get Prepared App and create your RediPlan today.