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Storm

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Overview

There are a number of actions you can take to protect yourself before, during and after a storm:

Before

To prepare yourself and your community for storms:

  • Trim or remove trees and branches overhanging your home, business or powerlines on your property.
  • Test batteries in radios and torches.
  • Put together an Emergency Kit which includes:
    • A battery-operated or wind-up radio;
    • A battery-operated or wind-up torch;
    • Spare batteries;
    • A first aid kit;
    • Rubber gloves and strong leather or garden gloves;
    • Mobile phone and charger;
    • A waterproof bag or container;
    • A good supply of medicines and prescriptions;
    • Strong shoes or boots;
    • A copy of your Emergency Plan;
    • Special items for any vulnerable people, such as babies or the disabled; and
    • Enough non-perishable food and water for every person (and pets).
  • Invite the State Emergency Service to present an awareness and education program to your community group.
  • Understand the Storm Warnings issued by the Bureau of Meteorology. Storm warnings cover a range of dangers: thunderstorms, lightning, hail, damaging winds, tornadoes, heavy rain and flash flooding.
Advice before a storm

During

For the most up-to-date warnings go to TasALERT, listen to your local ABC radio or visit the Bureau of Meteorology’s website.

To reduce the impact of storms:

  • Bring children and pets indoors.
  • Check that the neighbours know about the warnings and are prepared.
  • Secure outside items, including outdoor furniture and play equipment.
  • Shelter indoors while the storm passes. Make sure your pets are inside.
  • Check that neighbours know about the warnings and are prepared.
  • Stay clear of windows in case they break.
  • Get your Emergency Kit ready to go.
  • Turn off and unplug all non-essential electrical items. Power blackouts can occur during storms.
  • Lightning can be deadly. If outdoors, seek shelter immediately in a building or vehicle. NEVER shelter under a tree.

If you are driving:

  • Be alert and watch for hazards such as powerlines, fast-flowing water, washed away roads or bridges, tree branches and roofing iron.
  • Slow down, drive to suit the conditions and turn your headlights on.
Advice during a storm

After

  • Make sure children are ALWAYS well supervised.
  • Stay well clear of swollen creeks, drains, fallen trees, powerlines and damaged buildings.
  • Always assume fallen powerlines are dangerous.
  • Do not go ‘sightseeing’; there may be several hazards caused by the storm.  Sightseers delay emergency services and cause accidents.
  • Check that neighbours are okay, especially the elderly.
  • If your home or property is damaged:
    • Stay at ground level while checking for damage. Look out for broken glass, loose tiles or roofing iron, damaged powerlines and other debris.
    • Contact your insurance company immediately. Take photos of the damage.
    • If trees or branches have fallen around your yard and are not dangerous (e.g. over the driveway), contact your local tree service. Your insurance may cover these costs.
    • Have storm or wind damaged wiring or other electrical equipment checked by an electrician.
  • If your home is badly damaged and you need to relocate, take your Emergency Kit and pets with you.

For further information go to www.ses.tas.gov.au

Advice after a storm

Hazards