Before The Storm - How can I prepare
The number of calls to the Victorian State Emergency Service (VICSES) and insurance claims may be reduced by up to two-thirds when the community conducts basic housekeeping around homes or businesses prior to a storm. Things you can do now to reduce the cost of storms:
• Prepare your Family Home Emergency Plan
• Inspect and fix fences, roofs and gutters for damage or loose materials
• Clean your gutters and downpipes frequently
• Seal any cracks in the foundation and exterior walls[1]
• Ensure branches near your home and powerlines are trimmed
• Keep your yard or balcony/patio free from clutter
• Make sure your roof is in good repair
• Check that you have adequate insurance cover for your home and contents
• Keep a list of emergency numbers near the telephone. For a flood and storm emergency call VICSES on 132 500
• Assemble an emergency kit
• Help your neighbours to prepare their homes
Preparation for storm events goes further than home and contents
It is important that the occupants of the household are also prepared and that children understand these arrangements and your pets are catered for:
• Meet with your family to develop a Home Emergency Plan
• Explain the dangers of high water, fast moving water and flooding to children
• Plan and practise an evacuation route
• Establish a safe meeting point in case of a sudden emergency
• Discuss how you will care for pets in the event you leave your home
• Learn how and when to turn off the utility mains such as gas, electricity and water
During The Storm
When a storm warning is broadcast
Storm warnings are advised via ABC radio, news, Internet and the Bureau of Meteorology. If a storm warning is issued for this area, you should:
If installed, check your meter box sticker for advice.
• Listen to ABC and/or local radio for information and advice
• Make contact with neighbours to ensure they are appropriately prepared
• Bring children and pets indoors
• Stay clear of windows
• Move outdoor furniture to a safe location such as the garage
• Put your family emergency kit where you can find it easily
While the storm is passing through, stay indoors if possible.
What about my car?
• Park your car undercover and away from trees
• Keep an emergency kit in your car
What if I am stuck in my car during a storm?
• DO NOT drive into water of unknown depth and current. This can be deadly
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• Slow down and turn headlights on
• Be alert and watch for hazards on the road, such as powerlines
• Storms claim lives.
If visibility becomes low:
• Ensure you slow down and put your headlights on
• Put on your hazard lights and pull over to the side of the road in a clear safe area
• Make sure you are clear of streams, trees and powerlines
• DO NOT drive into water of unknown depth and current
After The Storm
Now that the storm has passed what do I do?
• Keep listening to your local radio for information and advice
• Check your house for damage. If you need help from VICSES, call 132 500
• For life-threatening emergencies, call 000 immediately
• Stay well clear of creeks, drains, fallen trees, fallen powerlines and damaged structures
• Ensure children are supervised
• If you don’t need help yourself, check with your neighbours
• Do not go sightseeing. Sightseers may delay emergency services or cause accidents
