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Preparing for Storm Season

October 14, 2024

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Queensland summers are a time when the skies can shift from calm to chaos in just moments -delivering a deluge of rain, lightning and in recent years, flooding. With these unpredictable weather patterns often causing significant disruption, preparation is more than just a precaution – it’s a necessity.

This article will step you through our 9 key planning tips for the upcoming storm season.

1. Understand the risks

Queensland is no stranger to extreme weather, with storms often causing floods, power outages, and wind damage. Understanding your local risks is key to preparation. Areas near rivers and creeks are more susceptible to flooding, while coastal regions are more likely to experience cyclones.

Use government resources, such as the Queensland Government’s Disaster Dashboard, for real-time updates and to stay informed about storm warnings, evacuation routes, and flood maps.

2. Check your insurance coverage

Review your home and contents insurance policy to ensure it covers storm, flood, and cyclone damage. Many people are caught off-guard by exclusions or underinsurance, which can leave them financially vulnerable after a disaster. Update your coverage if necessary to reflect the value of your property and belongings.

3. Prepare your home and property

Before the storm season, inspect your property and make necessary improvements:

Roof and gutters

Ensure your roof is in good condition and gutters are clear of debris to prevent water build-up. Consider installing gutter guards to keep them clean during storms.

Secure outdoor furniture

Store outdoor furniture, trampolines, and loose objects that can become projectiles in high winds.

Trim trees

Remove dead branches and trim overhanging trees to reduce the risk of falling limbs.

Install storm shutters

If you live in a cyclone-prone area, storm shutters can protect windows and doors from wind and flying debris.

4. Create an emergency kit

Having a well-stocked emergency kit is vital. Ensure you have the following essentials:

First-aid kit
Battery-operated radio
Flashlights and spare batteries
Non-perishable food and bottled water (enough for three days)
Essential medications
Copies of important documents (in a waterproof container)
Blankets and clothing

5. Develop a family emergency plan

Create a family emergency plan to ensure everyone knows what to do in the event of a storm. Include:

An evacuation route and meeting points if you need to leave home
Emergency contact numbers (local authorities, insurance providers, family)
A plan for pets, including their transport and shelter arrangements
Assign responsibilities to each family member for securing the home and gathering essential items

6. Protect your vehicle

Park your car in a garage or under cover to protect it from hail and flying debris. If you don’t have covered parking, consider using car covers designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.

7. Stay informed

During storm season, keep an eye on weather updates. Listen to alerts from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and the State Emergency Service (SES) to know when severe weather is imminent. Social media and community networks can also provide useful updates, but always verify information with official sources.

8. Know what to do during a storm

If a storm hits, follow these safety precautions:

Stay indoors, away from windows and doors.
Avoid using electrical appliances during a lightning storm.
Move your car to higher ground if you’re in a flood-prone area.
Monitor emergency broadcasts for instructions and evacuation notices.

9. After the storm: Assess and recover

Once the storm passes, ensure it’s safe to go outside. Be cautious of fallen power lines, debris, and floodwaters. If your property has sustained damage:

Take photos of any damage for insurance claims.
Contact your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process.
Avoid driving through floodwaters or entering any water-damaged buildings until they’ve been declared safe.

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