Earthquake preparation
When an earthquake strikes, rest assured, Vero is here
At Vero, we understand how devastating earthquakes can be.
That’s why we strive to bring you the latest information, resources and advice – especially any critical actions you should take. We’re committed to supporting you every step of the way – before, during and after an earthquake.
When you need to prepare for an earthquake, Vero is here
When subterranean rocks break and shift due to strain from the earth’s tectonic plate movements, the earth’s sudden, fierce shaking is known as an earthquake.
Compared to other countries, Australia’s risk of suffering an earthquake is lower, but we still experience moderate to high activity. Sadly, there’s rarely any warning before an earthquake strikes, so it’s even more important to be prepared.
Here are some practical tips to help you reduce your risk. And remember if you need any assistance – Vero is here.
Before an earthquake
- If you haven’t already, prepare an emergency kit and keep it handy (this can include things like first aid supplies, torch, battery operated radio, important documents, medicines and any other essentials you need for an evacuation)
- Fasten shelves securely to walls
- Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves or on the floor
- Store breakable items such as glass and ceramics in closed cabinets
- Repair any cracks in ceilings or foundations
- Identify and communicate to your family and employees where safe spots are located in each room
- Run regular earthquake drills; drop, cover and hold on
- Identify where and how to turn off the mains supply for water, power and gas.
Useful links and contacts
Precautionary tip
If you haven't already, prepare an emergency kit and keep it handy (this can include things like first aid supplies, torch, battery operated radio, important documents and medicines).
At the onset of an earthquake
Use this information to keep up to date and access any help. If you need any further guidance, please contact us. For emergencies, please call 000.
During an earthquake
- Listen to your battery operated radio for updates
- If an official evacuation order is issued then you must leave immediately. Take your emergency pack and any other packed essentials with you as you may not be able to return to your business or home for some time.
Emergency contacts
- In an emergency call 000
- State Emergency Services (SES) information
Important information
Please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.
If you’ve been affected by an earthquake, Vero is here
Important: the area around your premises may be affected and it may not be safe for you to return for some time. Please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.
We understand this is a stressful time for you, your family and your business, so we’ll do everything we can to make it easier for you.
We’ve listed important information below on how to lodge a claim, precautions you should take, and tips to help with a smooth claim process.
Precautions to take after an earthquake
Importantly, the safety of you, your loved ones and employees comes first. Please contact us if you need any further guidance. For emergencies, please call 000.
- If you have evacuated, it’s extremely important that you do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services advise it’s safe to do so
- Look for and extinguish small fires
- Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline or other flammable liquids immediately
- Listen to a battery operated radio or television for the latest emergency information
- Expect aftershocks – they can occur in the first hours, days, weeks or even months after the quake. These secondary shockwaves are usually less violent, but can be strong enough to do additional damage to weakened structures
- Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire or relief organisations
- Inspect utilities and:
- check for gas leaks; if you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noises then open a window and quickly leave the building. If you’re able to, turn off the gas at the outside main valve
- if you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker
- if you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using the toilets and call a plumber.
How to make a claim
Call the Claims Service Team on 1300 888 073. We’re here for you at any time, any day of the week.
When you call to make a claim, please have ready:
- Your policy number
- Name and contact details on the policy
- Your ABN if you’re registered for GST
- Details of the damage
Tips for lodgement
- Tell us if there’s an immediate danger e.g. emergency requirements, possible roof collapse, unable to return to the property for a period of time etc.
- If your property or vehicle is not completely damaged, take precautions where possible to secure them – only if it’s safe to do so
- If your vehicle is damaged, have its approximate location ready to tell our operator
- Take photographs of any damage – where safe to do so
- Do not dispose of any damaged parts of your property, contents or vehicle until we have agreed
- Do not wash, clean or remove debris from any damaged area without our consent – unless you need to do this to prevent further damage or for sanitation
- Do not carry out or authorise any repairs without our consent – unless you need to for emergency or safety reasons.
Emergency information and contacts
- In an emergency call 000
- State Emergency Services (SES) information
Remember Vero is here for you – before, during and after an earthquake. If you need assistance or any further guidance, please contact us.
Important information
Please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.
Make a claim
Call the Claims Service Team on 1300 888 073.
We're here for you and your clients at any time and any day of the week.
