In an earthquake, stop, drop, cover and hold
In Wellington, the mostly likely hazards include earthquakes, tsunami, landslides, extreme weather, fire, chemical spills or a pandemic such as influenza.
You can take some simple steps to reduce risk to yourself, your family and property in the event of these types of emergency.
You can sign up to get text alerts of emergencies, so that you get a text message on your mobile phone warning you of any big emergency.
Text Alerts
Earthquakes
Prepare for an earthquake by identifying a safe place to go to, having an emergency plan and survival items and keeping your insurance up to date.
Survival Items
In an earthquake, go to a safe place a few steps away - such as under a sturdy table or next to an inside wall. Then drop to the floor, cover and hold on until the earthquake has finished.
After an earthquake, there'll be aftershocks. Try and help those around you if you can, report any injuries or fires (dial 111), and listen to the radio for advice. If your property is damaged, take photos and document the damage for insurance purposes.
For more details, see:
Earthquake Safety Advice - Drop, Cover and Hold (254KB PDF)
You can also watch this video to see what to do in an earthquake:
NZ Get Thru - What to Do in an Earthquake - YouTube
Other hazards
For information on flooding in the Wellington region and how to respond to that risk, see:
Floods - Greater Wellington Regional Council