Skip the Toilet Paper: Experts Say Know Your Neighbours to Survive a Disaster

Governments around the world are telling people to get ready for emergencies. The UK started a campaign asking families to store food and supplies at home. But experts in Australia say the best thing you can do is not rush to the shops — it is to get to know your neighbours and build strong community ties. Being connected to the people around you can help everyone survive a disaster better.

A fake post on social media pretended to be from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, claiming the government wanted people to stockpile food and water. Australia's National Emergency Management Agency, known as Nema, stepped in quickly to say it was not true. The Australian government has not asked anyone to stockpile food or water. Nema also said Australia faces different risks from the UK, including bushfires, floods, cyclones, and heatwaves.

Australian states already give people advice about keeping basic supplies on hand for natural disasters. New South Wales Health suggests having food, water, a first aid kit, medicines, and a portable radio ready. The Victorian government advises people in bushfire areas to pack bottled water, spare clothes, a torch, medication, and ID documents. The Australian Red Cross also has detailed guides and even an app to help families make an emergency plan.

Recovery and resilience director Nichola Krey from the Red Cross says the key is not to panic. She says being prepared means talking with your family before a disaster so everyone knows the plan. People should find out what hazards are common in their area, whether that is floods, fires, or extreme heat. Knowing where to go and what to do ahead of time makes a big difference.

Worries about cyber-attacks and global instability have also been growing. Attackers using artificial intelligence have tried to disrupt critical infrastructure — the important systems a country depends on, like power grids and water supplies. Australia's signals agency has warned that these threats are real and serious. Cyber-attackers have already targeted refrigeration systems and blood banks in Europe.

Professor Jill Slay from the University of Adelaide reviewed Australia's critical infrastructure laws this year. She looked at 11 industries including communications, water, transport, and power. She found that if these systems were hacked or went offline, it could cause power blackouts, fuel shortages, and loss of internet and phone service. She says the risk is growing fast because technology is changing so quickly.

Slay believes governments need to be more open with the public about where the weaknesses are. She says industries often work in isolation and do not share enough information with each other. She also says now is not the time for people to start stockpiling at home. 'I can see why you'd be scared but I don't think extra toilet paper is going to help,' she said.

Krey says people in well-connected communities do better during disasters and bounce back faster. Knowing your neighbours, understanding what your local council offers, and being familiar with your area all help build resilience. Strong communities protect each other when things go wrong. And a good neighbour might even lend you some toilet paper when you need it most.