As the skies darken and the winds pick up, it’s crucial to be well-prepared for the unpredictable weather that can unfold during this period. From heavy rainfall and flooding to hail storms, being ready for the storm season is crucial. In this article, we’ll explore a comprehensive guide to help Queensland residents get prepared and stay safe during the storm season. 1. Stay Informed Keeping abreast of weather updates is the first step in storm preparedness. Subscribe to weather alerts, bookmark the BOM website and download weather apps to receive timely information. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) app is available on the Apple App store as well as the Google Play store for free. Understanding the forecast can help you plan and take necessary precautions well in advance. 2. Create an Emergency Kit Assemble a well-stocked emergency kit that includes essentials such as non-perishable food, water, medications, a first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, important documents, and hygiene items. If you have a pet, pack them their own emergency kit with food, medicines with clear instructions, bedding, toys and so on. 3. Secure Your Property Take the time to secure your property against potential storm damage. Secure outdoor furniture, garden tools, and trim overhanging branches inspect your roof for any damage or areas of concern. A quick walk around your property can make a significant difference. 4. Develop an Evacuation Plan Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and shelters in your area. Have a family emergency plan in place, including designated meeting points and communication methods. If authorities issue evacuation orders, follow them promptly to ensure your safety and the safety of your loved ones. 5. Insurance Check-Up Review your insurance policies, including coverage for potential flood damage. Ensure that your policies are up-todate and that you understand the extent of your coverage. Update your policy if necessary, and take photos or videos of your possessions as a record for insurance claims. Storm Ready - A Guide to Weathering the Storm Season Safely The Gold Coast is known for it’s sun-soaked beaches and vibrant lifestyle, but it is no stranger to the annual storm season. 6. Backup Important Documents Store important documents such as identification, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof and portable container. Consider making digital copies and storing them securely in the cloud for easy access. 7. Stay Connected Maintain open lines of communication with neighbours and local community groups. Being connected with your community can provide valuable support during and after a storm, such as sharing resources and information. Keep communication devices charged and invest in a portable charger. Losing power during a storm is not uncommon, and having a way to stay connected can be crucial. Follow the official social media accounts of local authorities for real-time updates. 8. Plan For Your Pets Your household’s emergency and evacuation plan should be tailored to the number and type of animals you care for. Make sure your pet is registered with your local council and that your pets microchip details are up to date. Also have them wear a collar with a tag that has your details on it. Make sure you have easy access to carriers, leads, horse floats and so on. In the event you are unable to get home during a natural disaster, pre-arrange with friends who live close by or neighbours to collect and care for your pets at their place until you are able to return or be reunited. 9. Know Who To Contact The SES can assist when you or your property are in danger or potential danger associated with a flood or storm in Queensland. You can download the “SES Assistance Queensland” app on both Apple and Android or you can call them for help on 132 500 The Emergency+ app is available for Apple and Android and uses the GPS functionality of smart phones to enable callers to provide emergency operators with their location information as determined by their smart phone. The app includes the option of calling State Emergency Services (SES) or Police Assistance Line (PAL). For police, fire or ambulance, dial 000.
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