In the wake of last month’s volcanic eruption at White Island, an emergency manager in Taupo has stressed the importance of keeping documents such as insurance policies in a safe place.
The eruption at White Island has fuelled discussions among residents in areas with high volcanic activity on how they can best prepare for a similar event. For Ian Connon, emergency manager at Taupō District Council, it is all about proper planning.
Connon told NZ Herald that families and individuals in these areas need to have a household emergency plan and an emergency kit that, aside from items such as food and bedding, should also contain important documents like insurance policies, passports, and other forms of identification.
According to Connon, these documents should be stored both online and in physically safe places that can be easily accessed.
“We are trying to educate people,” he said. “They are responsible for themselves in a disaster or emergency situation. People need to be able to look after themselves for at least three days.”
While concerns about volcanic activity are growing, Connon said that New Zealanders should be prepared regardless of what the disaster could be.
“Everyone should be ready for a hazard that may happen,” Connon told NZ Herald. “Whether that be an earthquake, volcanic eruption, fire or high winds.”
