What to do When a Cyclone, Severe Thunderstorm or Flood is on the Way
Every severe weather event is different, but you can take steps to prepare your home and surroundings before conditions worsen.
Use these tips to get ready.
Find the strongest and safest room
This should be away from big windows, in a bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, or hallway in case you need to shelter in your home during a severe storm or cyclone. If you do have to shelter in place, cover any windows in your safe room with a mattress or heavy blanket to protect you from broken glass if the window breaks.
When placed correctly, sandbags can reduce the impact of flooding on your home. You can purchase sandbags from local hardware stores and your local council may supply them during storm season. Click on the title text above for more details.
Secure your home
If you have cyclone screens, fasten them securely. Board up any exposed windows, doors, and seep holes if possible. For extra protection, tape plastic sheeting to the inside of windows to help keep wind and rain out.
Park somewhere safe, and have a plan to leave early
Put fuel in your vehicle so you are ready to evacuate if needed.
Park it in a sheltered area away from trees, powerlines and waterways.
If you know a flood is coming, leave your home early and go somewhere safer.
Check for road closures before you leave.
Secure loose items
Secure loose items that could cause damage if blown around in high winds (such as garden furniture
and toys). Move outdoor equipment, rubbish, chemicals, and poisons out of harms way.
Know how to disconnect utilities
Locate and be ready to disconnect or shut down your gas, electricity, solar power and water services if instructed.
Prepare water supply and internal drains
Fill buckets and bath with clean water in case of interruptions to main supply. Prepare to sandbag internal drains and toilets to prevent sewage backflow.
Move valuables and electrical items
Empty and raise fridges and freezers and stack or move furniture, valuables, and electrical items. Store any poison and chemicals well above ground level.
If possible store, tie down, or move caravan or trailers to a sheltered area.
Click on the title text above for detailed tips on protecting your caravan.
Tree Branches
Check for tree branches hanging over your roof. Cut them off if you can do so safely.
Check on your Neigbours
Check your family, friends, and neighbours know what to do. Help them if you can and don't be afraid to ask for help.
If you can, move your livestock, horses and other animals to a safe paddock that has high ground and shelter from the wind. Keep your pets (including cats) indoors, make sure they have a safe place, food and water and something to clean up mess. Have a pet emergency plan and kit. Click on the title text above for more information.
Home Maintenance
Keeping your home maintenance up-to-date all year round can help prepare you for severe weather.
Use the tips below to get ready.
Roof Condition
Check the condition of your roof and repair if needed
Gutters and down pipes
Keep gutters and downpipes clear of leaves and other blockages.
Overhanging branches
Trim trees and branches that are close to your buildings. Always check with your local council first. Also, let your power distributor (Energex or Ergon etc.) know if any are overhanging power lines.
House repairs
Fix any rust, loose fittings and rotting or termite-affected timber.
Window seals
Repair any broken seals around windows to make sure water can't get inside.
Water
If you have good access to water around your house e.g. tanks, swimming pools, make sure they are well maintained. Don’t rely on electric pumps and town water because these may stop working in extreme weather.
Debris and garden waste
Keep yard clear of leaves and rubbish. Remove vegetation around fence lines.
Renting?
Alert your landlord or property manager of any maintenance that needs to take place around your home.
Insurance
Queensland is the most natural disaster impacted state in Australia, exposing our homes to repeated damage from devastating cyclones, floods and other disaster events such as bushfires. Make sure to check your insurance policy has enough cover for your home and contents.
Strengthen your Home Against Extreme Weather
Home maintenance is key to improving your home’s resilience. This might be as simple as tidying up around the yard, or you can think about resilient design and materials. Learn more about resilient building options by clicking here.
How to Guides
Bunnings' 'Do it Yourself' series has tips for preparing your home for extreme weather. There are some great options below or visit their website for more information by clicking here.
Find out more on how to get your home ready for extreme weather.
