Response manual

Know the route before the ground shifts, not after.

Groundline lays out exactly what to do before, during, and after the four emergencies most households will actually face — so the right move is already decided when it matters.

Open the kit manifest →
4 Hazard
protocols
01
Ground failure

Earthquake

Most injuries come from falling objects, not the shaking itself. Preparation is mostly about what's secured and how fast you react.

Before
  • Secure heavy furniture and shelves to the wall
  • Identify safe spots in each room — under sturdy tables, away from glass
  • Pack an emergency kit and agree on a family meeting point
During
  • Drop, cover, and hold on — don't run outside
  • Stay clear of windows, mirrors, and tall furniture
  • If outdoors, move to open ground, away from buildings and power lines
After
  • Check yourself and others for injuries first
  • Inspect your home for gas leaks and structural cracks
  • Stay alert for aftershocks before re-entering damaged buildings
02
Rising water

Flood

Floods rarely arrive without warning. The gap between a close call and a disaster is usually how early you act.

Before
  • Know your area's flood risk and nearest evacuation route
  • Store important documents in a waterproof container
  • Raise valuables and utilities off the ground floor where possible
During
  • Move to higher ground immediately — don't wait for a formal warning
  • Never walk or drive through moving floodwater
  • Switch off electricity at the mains if it's safe to reach
After
  • Wait for authorities to confirm it's safe before returning
  • Treat all floodwater as contaminated
  • Photograph damage before you begin cleanup, for insurance
03
Smoke & flame

Fire

House fires spread faster than most people expect — often in under three minutes. Speed and a clear exit matter more than firefighting.

Before
  • Install smoke alarms in every room and test them monthly
  • Plan two escape routes from each room in the house
  • Keep a fire extinguisher accessible in the kitchen
During
  • Get low and go — crawl beneath smoke to breathe cleaner air
  • Feel doors before opening; never use elevators
  • Call emergency services only once you're safely outside
After
  • Don't re-enter until officials confirm it's safe
  • Check on neighbors, especially those needing extra help
  • Contact your insurance provider and document the damage
04
On the road

Road accident

The first few minutes after a collision decide how the rest of it goes — for the people involved and for everyone else on the road.

Before
  • Keep a basic first-aid and safety kit in the vehicle
  • Share your route with someone before a long drive
  • Check brakes, tyres, and lights on a regular schedule
During
  • Move to a safe area if possible and switch on hazard lights
  • Check for injuries before moving anyone
  • Call emergency services and give your exact location
After
  • Exchange details with everyone involved
  • Photograph the scene from multiple angles
  • Report the incident to your insurer promptly
Supply manifest

Emergency kit

A good kit sits by the door, not buried in storage. These six items cover most emergencies, and every one earns its space.

K–01

First aid kit

Bandages, antiseptic wipes, gloves, and basic pain relief.

1 / household
K–02

Flashlight

With a full set of spare batteries stored alongside it.

1 / person
K–03

Water

Sealed bottles, kept cool and checked for expiry twice a year.

3L / person / day
K–04

Power bank

Fully charged, reserved for phones and radios only.

1 / household
K–05

Radio

Battery or hand-crank powered, for emergency broadcasts.

1 / household
K–06

Emergency food

Non-perishable and easy to eat without cooking.

3-day supply / person

— Review the manifest every six months: check batteries, water, and expiry dates.

Standing habits

Safety guidelines

General preparedness that applies across every emergency, not just one.

Standard

Save local emergency numbers in your phone

Standard

Agree on a family meeting point in advance

Pending

Keep documents copied in a waterproof bag

Standard

Learn basic first aid and CPR

Pending

Know how to shut off gas, water, and electricity

Standard

Keep your kit accessible, not in deep storage

Pending

Review and update your plan every six months

Standard

Teach children what to do in an emergency