With the wild winter upon us, you can start protecting your house from severe weather and potential flooding.
One of the biggest issues during storms is the clearing of gutters, with leaves and debris preventing water from draining properly and causing water to enter homes through roofs and eaves.
SES volunteer Andrew Holden said one of the most common mistakes people make is waiting too long to prepare.
“Winter comes quickly, so don’t wait until June or July,” he said. “Prepare well and truly ahead in autumn when leaves are collecting and not when storms are already hitting.”
Households are also encouraged to have a simple storm-safe plan, including torches, spare batteries and emergency supplies in case of power outages.
“Storms and flash flooding can happen at any time of year, which is why being prepared before winter arrives is so important,” Andrew said.
“This includes securing loose outdoor items and clear debris around drains before severe weather arrives.”
SES responds to emergencies that threaten life or property, including storm damage caused by fallen trees or water entering homes. Residents should contact electricity providers directly if powerlines are involved.
We are working with the SES to help our community better understand how to stay safe during storms and heavy rain.
We continue to work with partner agencies as part of our Health and Inclusion Plan and Integrated Water Management Plan to help us prepare for extreme weather events.
Join our flood preparedness workshop on Thursday 25 June at the VICSES Moorabbin Unit, 2D Bricker Street, Cheltenham.
The workshop will provide practical advice on preparing homes for extreme weather, understanding the role of Council and emergency services during storm events, and learning how you can reduce risks around your property.
