Rodney District Council is encouraging people to think about what they can do to prepare for a Swine Flu outbreak, in case the flu spreads.
A few simple steps can help you to be prepared in the event of a flu outbreak or any other kind of emergency.
Paul Green, who oversees the Council’s Emergency Services Team says that if the flu spreads and people have to be quarantined in their homes for a number of days, they should have plans in place so they can stay warm and well fed.
“It’d be wise for people to make sure they have enough food to last at least a week – this is important not just for Swine Flu but will assist you to get through any kind of emergency.”
“People should also be thinking about how they can assist their family, friends and neighbours – and check up on whether they have enough food stored also.”
Mr Green says if people contract the flu then they will need to stay at home for at least seven days and they will need to consider how they can take care of themselves and anyone else who depends on them.
The Council has also been making preparations in light of the global situation. For the past month Council staff have been putting in place preparations to ensure the Council continues to provide essential services in the event of swine flu spreading and to provide welfare assistance to health authorities if required.
“We have been working on ensuring that essential services – such as the water supply and rubbish collections – will not be disrupted if staff are sick or need to look after sick family members.”
He says that public facilities, such as libraries or the Leisure Centre will remain open unless health authorities consider it necessary to close these to help prevent the spread of the flu virus.
Mr Green says that Council managers have been reviewing their business continuity plans and making sure these are up to date.
Civil Defence staff recommend that people take the following steps to make sure they are prepared for Swine Flu:
Stock Up On Food And Basic Supplies
Ensure now that you have at least seven days food and basic supplies at home, or that there is someone who can get them for you. This includes baby supplies, pet supplies, tissues and toilet rolls, medicine and medical supplies.
Remember that if you have to go out when you’re sick you will be exposing other people to the flu, so it’s important to stay home if possible.
Make Plans To Care for People Who Depend On You
While you are sick you may not be able to care for family members or pets you are responsible for. You should make alternative arrangements for their care now. Ask someone else if they could help out if necessary.
Take Care Of Essential Services
If you have to be home for a week, make sure you will have power and gas for heating your home and cooking food, and other essential items like phones. Make arrangements to cover these things now. If a bill has to be paid while you’re sick, arrange for someone to go and pay it.
Get A Support Network In Place
You may need help from other people when you are ill. Ask your friends, family, neighbours, colleagues or community group (eg church or sports club) if they can help you and offer to do the same for them.