With the bushfire season and the stormy season already started in different parts of Australia, it is time for a reminder that the disaster channel for up-to-date information in emergency situations in Australia is ABC Local Radio. Do remember to have spare batteries for a portable radio.

If accessing crucial information from a mobile device, it is useful to know that, if the power goes off, the device can be recharged from a car battery. (Just check - now - that you have the right connection to do this.) 

If your baby is breastfed and you are considering weaning you might want to delay this till after an emergency.  Continuing to breastfeed means food security for your baby and no worries about interruptions to water supply or power, or unsafe water. Did you know you can boost the milk supply by increasing breastfeeds for the duration of the emergency? If you need support to do this or are worried about your milk supply, contact the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 24/7 advice by telephone or email, or go to the website for links, at www.breastfeeding.asn.au . You may want to telephone your lactation consultant (IBCLC) if you are already in touch with one.

If you are not breastfeeding, now is the time  - before any emergency situation arises - to put together an emergency kit with your baby's food and the utensils needed to mix and give the feed. If in doubt, contact your local Child Health Nurse for detailed information.

Be prepared! We always hope that natural disasters won't happen anywhere near us, but unfortunately they do, as the last few summers have taught us.