With Lismore and the Northern Rivers on cyclone watch, residents are being urged to check and charge their batteries, as an important part of their preparation.

Supermarkets have been inundated with people looking to stock up with food supplies, and Battery World Lismore owner, Greg Woolley, says batteries are a critical, but often overlooked, part of any emergency kit.

“There’s no point having a torch, if there’s no way of powering it up,” he said. “Just about everyone has a battery drawer at home, but the contents can be random or out of date.

“Taking the time to plan really could save your life and the lives of your family. Our advice is to be prepared and make sure your emergency preparedness kits are checked annually.”

Top tips for making sure your batteries are ready for TC Alfred:

• Check what size your torch/radio/appliances take
• Ensure you have adequate supply of all sizes
• Check the expiry dates on your existing batteries, to ensure they haven’t lost charge
• Charge all your portable devices before the storm hits
• Obtain and charge a power bank, so you can keep your mobile running if power remains out for a period.

“Batteries are often something people forget about until they need them, but they can be a lifesaver during natural disasters,” said Battery World’s General Manager, Johnny Kennedy.

“Having enough spare batteries for three days is recommended along with portable battery-operated AM/FM radiowith spare batteries (AA/AAA) and waterproof torches with extra batteries.

“If you find yourself sheltering in your home without power, you’ll need to keep up with all local updates. Having a means of lighting and some charging capability is also imperative,” he added.

EMERGENCY KIT SUPPLIES

Powered Items:

• Torch (battery or wind-up)
• Portable phone charger and cable
• Battery powered radio
• Extra batteries
• Solar powered generator Food & water items

Food & Water Items:

• Water for three days (10 litres per person)
• Non-perishable food for three days
• Can opener, cutlery & plates

Medical & personal items:

• First aid kit
• Medications and prescriptions
• Warm protective clothing and shoes
• Sturdy gloves
• Toiletries (for example toilet paper, sanitiser, face masks, toothpaste, soap, baby nappies) Important documents

Important Documents:

• Emergency phone numbers
• Passports and identification
• Cash
• Insurance papers and property deeds
• Birth and marriage certificates
• Photographs and keepsakes
• Store your important documents in sealed plastic bags or keep a digital copy on a USB or secure online storage.

Pet supplies:

• Food and water
• Toys
• Bedding
• Medication