Stay prepared and connected ahead of one of the “hottest summers” on record

Optus is calling on all Australians to prepare themselves ahead of what is predicted to be one of Australia’s hottest summers on record,¹ with its top tips to prepare for an extreme weather event.

The BOM has forecasted an increased risk of severe cyclones, above average rainfall and heightened risk of bushfires across parts of Australia.

To help customers stay connected and supported during extreme weather events, Optus has their top tips for disaster preparedness.

Optus’ top tips for disaster preparedness:

• Create an emergency kit: Pack essential supplies including food, water, first aid kits, torches and spare batteries and chargers. Also identify irreplaceable items and have them in your kit to take with you.
• Keep devices charged: Ensure phones and battery packs are fully charged.
• Conserve battery power: Close all unnecessary apps in the background and use power-saving mode on phones to extend battery life.
• Use Optus’ Device Guides: Visit Optus’ device guide for iPhone, Samsung and other devices for tips on how to optimise your phone during emergency situations.
• Back-up data: Use cloud services to avoid losing important personal photos and data.
• Emergency phone numbers: Have these saved on your phone and written down.
• Stay informed: Know the location of your local evacuation centre and emergency meeting spots along with the different ways to get there if roads are blocked during a disaster.
• Communicate plans: Inform family or friends outside of the impacted area before a weather event hits, including letting them know of your plans and exact location.

Optus is dedicated to supporting communities and providing essential services during adverse weather events. This includes deploying additional resources where possible to maintain connectivity and a range of initiatives to support customers.

Nick Channell, Local General Manager for northern NSW at Optus, said: “It is our priority at Optus to help Aussies stay prepared ahead of unexpected disasters, such as bushfires, extreme weather conditions and power outages.

“It is crucial for locals that are expecting a weather event to have an emergency plan in place and follow tips like these to prepare for emergencies and help safeguard themselves and their loved ones in case of a crisis.

“This includes keeping connected and having an open line of communication by ensuring mobile devices are charged, listening to your local radio station and following emergency services for important advice Aussies can also look to the Optus social media accounts for information,” Mr Channel said.

Find out more about Optus’ Disaster Relief here.

^{1 https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-10-12/australia-facing-one-of-hottest-summers-on-record-bom/104464014}