Prepare your property
Seven steps to get your home ready for storm season
NOW is the time to start preparing your home and property for a notoriously harsh Queensland summer.
With an active storm season predicted, it is not a matter of ‘if ’, but ‘how severely’ residents will be impacted.
Being ready for the worst is the key to survival and coping with emergencies when they arise.
Here are seven points to get you ready for storm season.
1. GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Clear the gutters, trim trees and overhanging branches, check for any damaged roof tiles and secure any loose items you have around the property. Identify any items you will need to move if a storm rolls in.
2. DOUBLE CHECK YOUR COVER
Make sure your insurance policies are up to date and appropriate.
3. EMERGENCY PLAN
Ensure you have created an emergency plan and see the factbox on this page for what to put in your emergency kit.
4. IF YOU LIVE IN A FLOOD-PRONE AREA
Store any poisons above ground level and identify any objects you will need to raise if a flood threatens your home.
5. IF YOU LIVE IN A CYCLONE-PRONE AREA
Have a builder check your home and increase its structural security if necessary. Consider shutters or metal screens on your windows for added protection during high winds.
6. COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR FAMILY
Ensure your family is aware of any emergency plans.
7. KEEP THIS STORM GUIDE HANDY
There aisstacks of information in here that will be useful to you this storm season.
A little preparation work now can save you a lot of money, heartache and perhaps even a life in the event of a natural disaster.
For more information head to www.qld.gov.au.