During storm season in Queensland, severe storms can strike at any time, so it pays to be prepared.
Here are some tips on how to be prepared for storm season:
Prepare your home
There are simple things you can do to minimise the impact of storms on your home:
- Clean out your gutters, downpipes and drains
- Remove tree branches close to your house
- Secure loose items around your property
- Check your roof to make sure it’s in good condition
- Learn how to safely turn off your power, water and gas
Develop an Emergency Plan
Prepare yourself and other family members by creating your own emergency plan, which covers:
- The location of the safest room to shelter and exit points in the house
- Where to go if you need to evacuate
- What to do with any pets
- A review of your insurance to ensure it’s adequate and current
- Any requirements for those with medical conditions or special needs
Create a Home Emergency Kit
An Emergency Kit contains essential items you may need during and after a severe storm. It should sustain you for at least three days and be kept in a waterproof box in an easy to access location. The following basic items should be included:
- Emergency contact numbers
- Torch (battery operated or wind-up)
- Portable radio (battery operated or wind-up)
- First Aid kit
- Important documents, including insurance papers, and cash in a waterproof bag
- Essential medication and any special items
- Drinking water and non-perishable food for three days
- Toiletries
- Mobile phone, spare battery and charger
Tune into warnings
- Turn to local radio or TV for storm warnings and weather updates
- Log on to Bureau of Meteorology (bom.gov.au) for storm alerts
- Listen out for Emergency Alert messages on your mobile or for emergency service warning sirens