Emergency Planning & Cyber safety

Update from Braintree District Council

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How prepared are you for an emergency? Do you know how to deal with a crisis?

September is preparedness month so we’re sharing some tips and advice on how you can be prepared when the unexpected happens. 


Tips to help you be Weather Ready!

Storm

Being aware and prepared for adverse weather conditions can make a real difference, especially faced with an emergency.

There are simple steps you can take to make sure your home or business is weather-ready, and you and your family stay safe if there is some adverse weather. 

  • If you are planning to travel, especially long distances, make sure you take necessary equipment dependant on the weather, such as plenty of food, sunscreen or maybe some wet weather gear.

 

  • Consider what equipment in your home and garden may be affected by strong winds, such as trampolines or garden furniture. Consider a way of securing these items. 

 

  • Check the drains and guttering in your home so they are able to cope with heavy rainfall - particular with the imminent arrival of autumnal weather.

 

 

  • Consider what you would need in case of a powercut and remember the power cut helpline 105. 

 

You can sign up to the Met Office free weather alerts, which will inform you of any adverse weather conditions in your area. 

Sign up to weather alerts

Home fire preparedness

fire campaign

Fire is a hazard that is potentially present in everyone's home and office, but there are ways to be prepared and protect yourself in an emergency. You can also learn some smart habits which can prevent fires from happening. 

  • Make sure you have the right number of fire alarms installed in your home or office. You should have at least one per level of your home, plus some in rooms where a fire can start. 
  • Practice with children what a smoke alarm sounds like and what to do if they hear one.
  • Don't forget to install a carbon monoxide alarm. 
  • Make sure that all members of your household know two ways to escape from every room. Have you all agreed on a family meeting spot in case of a fire? 
  • Ensure that everyone knows how to dial 999 in the event of an emergency. 
  • Teach children to Stop, Drop and Roll if their clothes catch on fire. 
  • Make sure you have your chimney swept on a regular basis. 

You can book for your local fire service to do a free home visit and advise you on any safety tips specifically for your home! 

Book a fire safety visit

Do you know how to stay safe online?

online

Cyber security affects everyone and even if you only use the internet very rarely, it is important to be aware of basic internet safety.

Follow these simple steps to keep yourself and your details safe:

  • Choose unique and strong passwords, and make sure you do not share them with anyone.
  • Keep your software up to date on all of your devices.
  • Secure your Wifi network to avoid anyone trying to steal your data.
  • Enable two factor authentication to avoid others getting access to your online banking or social media accounts.
  • Be aware of scams and phishing emails.E
12:59, 25 Sep 2023 by Parish Clerk
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