Cyclone recovery can be overwhelming, bringing stress, disruption, and emotional toll. Whether you’re dealing with property damage, power outages, or simply trying to get back into a normal routine, having a clear plan can make the process smoother.
1. Prioritise Safety First
- Check for hazards like structural damage, gas leaks, and fallen power lines before re-entering your home.
- Stay updated on emergency services reports, road closures, power restoration, and water safety advisories.
- Avoid floodwaters—they may be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
2. Clean Up Strategically
- Start with essentials: clear debris, secure hazards, and restore basic utilities.
- Tackle one section at a time to prevent overwhelm and maintain efficiency.
- Address mould risks quickly by removing wet furniture, carpets, and damaged materials.
3. Support Your Children
- Reassure them and encourage open conversations about their feelings.
- Maintain routines as much as possible to create a sense of stability.
- Engage them with books, toys, or small cleanup tasks to keep them occupied.
4. Lean on Your Community
- Check in on neighbours, elderly residents, and families who may need assistance.
- Seek support from local councils, community groups, and charities offering cyclone relief.
- Utilise government aid for financial assistance, emergency housing, and storm recovery grants.
5. Prioritise Your Well-Being
- Take breaks to prevent burnout during storm recovery efforts.
- Get enough sleep and eat nutritious meals to maintain energy levels.
- Talk to someone—whether a friend, support group, or mental health professional—if stress becomes overwhelming.
6. Rebuild at Your Own Pace
- List and prioritise tasks—focus on urgent home repairs first.
- Contact your insurer immediately, document damages with photos and keep receipts for claims.
- Don’t compare your recovery to others—each family’s situation is unique.
7. Prepare for the Future
- Restock emergency kits with non-perishable food, water, batteries, torches, and medical supplies.
- Strengthen your home with storm shutters, improved drainage, and reinforced roofing.
- Create a family emergency plan so everyone knows what to do in future cyclone events.
Need Time to Focus? Book a Babysitter Today
The stress of clean-up, repairs, and rebuilding after a cyclone can be exhausting. If you need a safe, experienced babysitter to care for your children while you focus on recovery, Coastal Babysitters is here to help.
Book a sitter today so you can prioritise what matters most.
