NSW SES deputy commissioner urges neighbour checks

Community Comes Together: NSW SES Deputy Commissioner Urges Neighbor Checks Amid Cyclone Alfred

Introduction: A Call to Action in the Face of Adversity

In the early hours of March 5, 2025, as Cyclone Alfred began to make its presence known, the New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) Deputy Commissioner, Deb Platts, issued a heartfelt plea to the community. With the cyclone’s path threatening to disrupt lives and cause widespread disruption, Commissioner Platts emphasized the importance of community support and mutual aid. In a simple yet powerful message, she urged residents in the affected areas to check on their neighbors, particularly the elderly, disabled, and those living alone. This call to action not only highlights the critical role of community during crises but also underscores the enduring strength of human connection in the face of adversity.

The Situation on the Ground: Preparing for Cyclone Alfred

Cyclone Alfred, a significant weather event, was forecast to impact various regions of New South Wales, bringing with it heavy rains, strong winds, and the potential for flooding. The NSW SES, well-known for its preparedness and response capabilities, was gearing up to handle the expected emergencies. However, Deputy Commissioner Platts recognized that while the emergency services were ready to respond, the community itself played a vital role in ensuring everyone’s safety. By encouraging neighbors to look out for one another, she was emphasizing a timeless truth: that in times of crisis, we are all in this together.

The Power of Community: Why Neighbor Checks Matter

Deb Platts’ message was not just a practical suggestion; it was a reminder of the power of community. In times of crisis, it is often the immediate community that provides the first line of support. Neighbors who check on one another can provide critical assistance, from ensuring someone has enough supplies to offering a safe place to stay. This kind of grassroots support is invaluable, especially for those who may be more vulnerable, such as the elderly or those with disabilities. By encouraging these neighborly checks, Commissioner Platts was leveraging the very fabric of community to bolster resilience and preparedness.

A Message of Empathy and Solidarity

The Deputy Commissioner’s call to action was also a message of empathy and solidarity. Recognizing that natural disasters can be isolating experiences, she sought to remind people that they are not alone. By reaching out to neighbors, individuals can help break down feelings of loneliness and foster a sense of unity. This message of solidarity is particularly important in the face of a crisis, where anxiety and uncertainty can run high. By encouraging proactive care for one another, Commissioner Platts was helping to create a collective sense of purpose and responsibility.

How You Can Help: Practical Steps to Support Your Community

So, how can you help? Commissioner Platts’ call to action is simple but profound. Start by checking on your neighbors, especially those who may be more vulnerable. Offer to help with preparations, such as securing outdoor furniture or stocking up on supplies. If someone is unable to leave their home, consider offering to bring them essential items. Even a simple phone call to check in can make a significant difference. These small acts of kindness not only provide practical support but also reinforce the bonds that hold communities together.

Conclusion: Building Resilience Through Connection

As Cyclone Alfred bears down on New South Wales, Deputy Commissioner Deb Platts’ message serves as a timely reminder of the strength that lies within our communities. By looking out for one another, we not only enhance our collective resilience but also affirm the values of empathy, solidarity, and mutual support. In the face of adversity, it is these values that will see us through. So, take a moment to check on your neighbor. Offer a helping hand. Together, we can weather any storm.