Photo courtesy of Redland City SES.
With Queensland’s storm season only weeks away, residents are being urged to act now to protect their homes and businesses rather than wait for severe weather to strike.
While storms can happen any time, the season typically runs from November through to April, with the Bureau of Meteorology’s long-range forecast overview indicating below-average rainfall alongside above-average daytime and night-time temperatures this season.
Redland City State Emergency Service (SES) Unit Local Controller Alex Johnson – who has been involved with the organisation for 28 years – said it’s better to be proactive rather than reactive.
“Don’t wait until a storm is approaching to start preparing,” he said.
“By then, conditions can change quickly and there may not be enough time to safely complete everything you need to do.
“Simple jobs around the home like clearing leaves from gutters and drains, repairing broken, loose or missing tiles on the roof, trimming overhanging branches, mowing your lawn, removing garden debris and securing outdoor items like trampolines, garden furniture and toys can help reduce the risk of storm damage when a severe storm does hit.
Alex also urges residents to prepare a three-day emergency kit in case of a power outage or other disruption.
“The thing about severe weather is you never think it will happen to you until it does,” he said.
“That’s why it is important every resident has the necessary items on hand, just in case.
“People think packing an emergency kit is expensive, but the way to do it is to grab a few things at a time – one week buy an extra tin of baked beans and the next week a packet of batteries.”
An emergency kit should include essential supplies such as drinking water (10 litres per person), non-perishable food, a can opener, torch, pet food and supplies, a battery-powered radio, spare batteries, a portable phone charger and cable, first aid supplies, protective clothing, toiletries, baby supplies, any necessary medications and extra cash.
Residents should also consider having gas-powered cooking equipment, sturdy gloves, sunglasses or safety glasses, an emergency whistle, tools such as a wrench, pliers and a screwdriver, tarpaulin and ropes, bedding, and items like books or playing cards to keep the family entertained.
With about 180 volunteers, Redland City’s SES will be on hand to assist the community and surrounding regions when needed.
Residents can also access up-to-date information through council’s disaster dashboard, which will feature important information like live weather warnings, power outages, road conditions and closures, evacuation centre locations, sandbag collection points and emergency contacts.
For non-life-threatening storm damage, contact the SES on 132 500.
In a life-threatening emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
