Emergency? Power Out? Know Your Neighbours!

When the lights go out, the people living next door could be your most valuable emergency resource.

Civil Defence Waikato has launched its Power Out? Plan On! campaign, encouraging communities to prepare for power cuts that could last anything from a few hours to several days.

But there's a particularly important message in its latest advice, and one that resonates strongly with our Tamahere, Matangi and surrounding rural communities: get to know your neighbours before an emergency happens.

Think about it. Who nearby has a generator, a gas BBQ, a chainsaw or practical skills that might come in handy? Is there a retired nurse, electrician or builder down your road? Could someone check on an elderly neighbour, collect the children or feed the animals if you're unable to get home?

In rural areas, where properties can be spread out and fallen trees or flooding may block access, a little neighbourhood cooperation could make an enormous difference.

And it doesn't require another committee, a complicated emergency plan or even a formal neighbourhood group.

Sometimes it's as simple as introducing yourself over the fence, exchanging phone numbers or sharing a cuppa.

Civil Defence reminds us that preparation isn't just about storing water, batteries and emergency supplies. It's also about the people around us.

The message? Know your neighbours. You never know when you might need each other.

For practical advice on preparing for power outages and other emergencies, visit www.getready.govt.nz.

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