Community
15 October, 2021
Prepare in advance
THE best time to prepare your home is now. Understanding your risks is the key to any preparations to secure and protect your property which will improve the safety of your home during a bushfire, storm, flood or cyclone.
Undertaking general maintenance is a vital first step. Check the condition of your roof, gutters and trim any large or overhanging trees.
Secure any loose items outside your home and perhaps arrange for a builder to inspect your roof and other structural items.
Outdoor furniture can be an issue during a storm, cyclone or high wind events. Chairs and tables can easily become a flying missile and should be secured safely.
Garbage bins and wheelie bins also need securing to prevent them blowing and potentially becoming a dangerous missile.
Make sure you have building and contents insurance in place. Once a cyclone is forecast many insurance companies will refuse to provide new policies.
Identify which room in your house is the strongest in case you need to retreat and shelter.
The preferred room is small, without windows, many people find the bathroom best suits their needs.
Identify where and how to turn off power, water and other essential services as a safety precaution and ensure all windows are securely closed and even covered if possible.
Ensure you have your emergency kit and important documents packed and handy before an emergency is declared.
If you live in a flood or storm surge prone area, make sure all items and vehicles are stored well above any potential flood or storm surge water levels.
If you have a generator, ensure you understand how to safely operate it and that it is full of fuel and regularly run and serviced. Also be sure to run your generator in a well ventilated area.
While sheltering, tune into local radio for ongoing advice and warnings.
Internet services may still be operating through your mobile phone service. Tether your laptop or tablet to your phone to also keep an eye on the emergency management and BOM websites.
For more information on how you should plan and prepare visit the www.getready.qld.gov.au
