By Sheree Hoddinett
Storms. Rain. Wind. It’s all part of Mother Nature, but there are times when she strikes a little bit harder and the impact is felt around the community and beyond. When it comes to severe weather in the Sunshine State, we all know it’s not a case of if, but when. With rain having already impacted the region and hot, humid weather indicating summer storms are coming, there’s a number of steps we can all take to try and ensure we’re ready for any crazy weather that may come our way.
Moreton Bay Region SES Controller Sean Harrop said it was really important residents prepared themselves and their family for severe weather.
“I know the community is tired and weary from what feels like endless bad weather but now is not the time to let their guard down with the predictions of another severe season,” he said. “It’s really important that everyone makes sure they are prepared. These are proactive steps residents can take to make sure they and their family are prepared and safe for this severe weather season.”
Tips on how best to be prepared:
Make an emergency kit.
Make an emergency plan.
Make any arrangements needed for your pets. This includes making sure their microchipping information is correct, you have their food, medicine, leads, and/or carry cases easily accessible. Many residents are prepared for their human family members but forget about preparing their furry family members for severe weather and possible evacuation.
Ensure you have medicine prepared and scripts, if required, for refills or replacement medication.
Keep important documents relating to your home, yourself and other family members in a safe place so they can easily be taken with you if you need to evacuate your property.
Keep the roof of your home in good condition - check the gutters and downpipes are clear of leaves and debris.
Trim trees and branches away from your home.
Know how to turn off the mains supply for water, power and gas, in case of emergency.
Secure, weigh down or put away loose objects around the house and yard. Large items like patio furniture and trampolines can become airborne in storms causing severe damage to your home and your neighbours. They are also potentially dangerous if they hit someone.
Ensure contents, home and vehicle insurance policies are up-to-date and have adequate coverage.
Register for Moreton Bay Regional Council’s free SMS early warning system MoretonAlert.
“This may seem like a lot of steps but if your family spends half a day on a weekend working together to complete these points you will have it done in no time and you will be prepared for severe weather,” Sean said. “You do need to check each of these steps every couple of months to ensure they are all still complete. It’s also important to ensure there is no new damage to your property and the contents of your emergency kit are still in date.” More information on being prepared can be found on the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) website www.qfes.qld.gov.au/prepare.
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