WITH the first total fire ban of the season announced only last week, the peak emergency time for our region, which runs from October to April each year, was bang on time, and the upcoming Emergency Expo could save your life.

Sunshine Coast residents are urged to take precautions now for the upcoming summer months and to be aware that disaster can threaten and impact, anytime and anywhere.

To help residents prepare, the Sunshine Coast Council’s bi-annual Emergency Expo will be held on Sunday, October 19, from 10 am to 2 pm at Lake Kawana, and this free expo will be informative as well as engaging for the whole family.

It’s a full day of thrilling demonstrations such as a helicopter water bombing, swift water rescues and vertical rescues. You might also be keen to watch how the police dive squad retrieve evidence, or how firefighters respond to an emergency blaze or crash.

There’ll be stalls hosted by emergency service volunteers, Sunshine Coast Council and Noosa Council, as well as plenty of food and drink options.
Young or old, new to the Sunshine Coast, or a long-time resident, homeowner, or renter – planning for extreme weather is important.

Council’s Disaster Management Coordinator Jason Membrey says warmer months always bring a higher chance of intense weather.

“It’s important to prepare now before the next severe weather event this summer, so you’re best placed to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at the Sunshine Coast,” Mr Membrey said.

“Council’s free Emergency Expo is an opportunity to do just that.

“Understanding which natural disasters or severe weather events are likely to occur in your area will help you prepare for events that are most likely to impact your family and home.

For more information on the Emergency Expo, head to Sunshine Coast Council’s Disaster Hub. www.disasterhub.com.au