Community Emergency Action Plan

Emergencies, such as extreme weather, tsunamis, earthquake disasters, fire, and riots, makes the Filipino community vulnerable to the effects of disasters. Studies have shown that social capital – how connected our community is before an emergency – defines how quickly and successfully we can recover.

The AFTI Community Emergency Action Plan (ACEAP) identifies resources and probable issues that may arise and sets out procedures to follow in response to emergencies and disastrous events.

Emergency Procedures

Prepare for Emergencies

• Read all the articles below
• Take note of all exits at your workplace and at your home.
• Prepare your emergency Go-Bag
• Be aware of designated evacuation sites and routes

Emergency Action for Tsunamis

1. Grab your Go Bag
2. DO NOT WAIT for an official alert. Immediately move to higher ground, inland, or to designated rally points away from the coast.
3. Listen to the emergency alert systems, local radio and follow instructions.
4. Contact your Emergency Zone Coordinator and inform them of your situation.

Personal Cyclone Safety Procedures

On Cyclone Warning

1. Board up or secure all doors and windows, Clear the area of loose materials that can cause damage or injury.
2. Prepare portable radio, batteries, torch, water, canned goods, can opener, utensils, rain gear, first aid kit, waterproof bags.
3. Fill vehicle fuel tanks.
4. Tune in to local radio, TV, and emergency alert systems for warnings.

On Warning of Evacuation

1. Wear strong shoes and tough weatherproof clothing for protection
2. Lock doors; turn off power, gas, and water
3. Grab your Go Bag
4. Proceed to designated rally points / evacuation sites.
5. Contact your Emergency Zone Coordinator and inform them of your situation.

Emergency Management Zones EMZ

ACEP is organized into five Emergency Management Zones by geographical location headed by elected or volunteer Zone Coordinators. The EMZ’s are as follows:

Rally Points

Rallying Point is a common geographic location where members can converge during an emergency. Rallying points can either be government-designated evacuation locations or prearranged rendezvous areas close to the same. All locations are at 11.0 meters above sea level except for Mataki’eua at +26m MSL.

Go Bag

After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency or further evacuation out of Tonga.

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your supplies in an easy to carry bag such as a backpack, a duffel. A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: