Australians are being urged to prepare now for a potentially high-risk spring and summer, with authorities warning communities could face extreme heat, bushfires, floods, cyclones and severe storms.

The Salvation Army Emergency Services is encouraging households to think about what they would need to survive for at least 48 hours to 72 hours if they were suddenly forced to evacuate or lost access to essential services.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Preparing for Australia’s high-risk El Niño summer

Know the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today

Salvation Army Emergency Services national response manager Bindy Lupis told The Morning Show Australians should not wait until an emergency is unfolding to work out what they need.

“We need to be ready for what might come,” Lupis said.

“I think we’re really good at being aware and knowing. We hear the weather, we hear things like (news shows) talking about it. But I think we still can be a little bit ‘She’ll be right’ in Australia and not take it seriously when things are coming.”

Lupis said everyone should pay attention to warnings, regardless of whether they live in a regional or metropolitan area.

“We’ve seen flooding events and serious storm events in metropolitan areas. We’ve certainly seen suburbs in Sydney be flooded and have to evacuate,” she said.

“I think it’s wise for everybody to keep it in mind and keeping an eye out on what’s coming.

“Don’t be blasé. Be informed. Keep an eye on what’s happening. Listen to the authorities.”

The 72-hour checklist to prepare now

She said Australians should start by putting together an emergency “go bag” containing the essentials they would need if they had to leave home quickly.

“Think about what you can’t live without for the 48 hours, 72 hours,” Lupis said.

One of the most important items is documentation, with residents encouraged to keep identification and important documents somewhere they can access them quickly.

“Often we have that on our phones, which is great,” Lupis said.

“But for services like ourselves and others, when we’re wanting to assist you then in a recovery centre, often we need your ID or we’ll need something to show who you are.”

She said households should also consider packing medications, children’s essentials such as nappies, water and basic food supplies for a few days.

“Think, what do I need for 72 hours that I couldn’t go without?”

Households should also prepare for the possibility of a prolonged power outage.

Lupis recommended having around three days’ worth of non-perishable food, along with a flashlight, spare batteries and a portable charger that does not rely on mains power.

A small solar panel can also be useful, she said.

“If you could cope at home for three days without power, think about what would the essentials be that you need,” Lupis said.

Check in with your neighbours

Experts are also urging Australians to consider people who may need additional help during an emergency, including elderly or vulnerable neighbours.

Lupis said checking in with people nearby could make a significant difference when extreme weather hits.

“Look out for each other. Check on your neighbours, the elderly, vulnerable people,” she said.

The Salvation Army has supported communities affected by natural disasters for 130 years and its Emergency Services teams provide practical and emotional support during disasters, including food and refreshments for emergency responders and evacuated residents.

Lupis said that support continues after the immediate emergency has passed, with the organisation providing psychological first aid, emotional support and material and financial assistance during the recovery period.

“We know recovery takes a long time following these kind of disasters,” she said.