Did you know Queensland's storm season peak for flooding, tropical cyclones and severe thunderstorms is between October to April?
In 2021, rainfall in Queensland was up by 9% above the average rainfall. With storm season now here, are you and your family prepared?
Below are 10 tips on how to prepare and keep your home and loved ones safe this storm season.
1. Check and clean your roof, gutters and downpipes.
2. Identify loose objects around your property, such as outdoor furniture and kids' toys that could potentially cause damage if not appropriately secured during a severe storm.
3. Trim tree branches away from the house
NOTE: If you have tree branches close to power lines, please contact Energex 13 12 53 or follow the prompts to the link provided below.
https://www.energex.com.au/home/safety/safety-at-home-or-work/trees-and-powerlines
4. If your home is at risk of potential flooding, use sandbags to help reduce the damage to your home. You can find your nearest collection site at: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Disaster-Management/Sandbags
5. Have on-hand masking tape and plastic sheeting or large garbage bags for emergency rain protection for your home.
6. Move your car under shelter if possible.
7. Secure your pets and animals – ensure that they are registered and microchipped for easy identification if your pet gets misplaced.
8. Check your house, contents and car insurance are all up to date.
9. Learn how to safely turn off your power and/or gas and water.
10. Sign up Moreton Alert to receive weather alerts and warnings here: https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Disaster-Management/MoretonAlert
Once the storm has passed, remember to check the following:
- Check your house of damage and fallen trees
- Stay away from fallen powerlines, if you do come across a fallen powerline contact Energex immediately on 13 19 62 (emergency 24/7)
- Beware of flooded roads and closures. You can check road closures at https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Roads/Weather-Impacted-Roads
- If your household appliances have been affected by water, do not use them, have it checked by an authorised electrical contractor before using them again.
Important numbers to keep handy:
000 (triple zero) – for life threating emergencies
SES (State Emergence Service) 132 500 – for temporary roof repairs and sandbagging
Energex 13 62 62 (power outage)
TMR road closures 13 19 40
Unity water 1300 864 489
Animal emergencies 1300 130 372