How to prepare for a storm

Storms and severe weather events can happen at any time, and they can be unpredictable. It's important that you’re aware of what to do before, during and after a storm to help keep your home and the people in it safe. These storm safety tips will help you prepare and stay safe in the event of a storm. 
 

What to do before a storm

There are a few things you can do to prepare for a storm before it hits. Help safeguard your home and minimise any damage that severe weather, hail and thunderstorms can cause:

• Make sure there are no loose items around your yard or balcony that can blow around and damage your house or injure someone
• Keep any trees or large plants around your house maintained to avoid them and debris falling on your building in strong winds
• Check gutters and drains around your house to make sure they're clear and not clogged
• Check the Bureau of Meteorology for the latest weather forecasts and updates
• Make sure your pets have safe and secure shelter from the storm
• Don't park your car under trees and move it under secure cover if possible
• When driving, do not attempt to cross roads with rising waters or flood ways in your vehicle (more than 10cm). Do not drive through flood waters on roads or in waterways
• Prepare an emergency kit in case of a storm that includes a radio (to listen to weather and emergency updates), torch, spare batteries and a list of emergency contact phone numbers
• Listen to and follow instruction from authority

What to do during a storm

Storms can bring hail, strong winds and heavy rainfall. The most important thing is that you, your family and your pets stay safe during the storm.

• Don’t use landline telephone during a thunderstorm or lightning strike
• Unplug electrical devices during a storm (computers, mobiles on chargers, appliances etc)
• Stay away from windows and glass doors
• If you're in a car, pull over to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights. Stay in your car until the storm has passed. If you require emergency assistance, call 000
• If you're swimming or in any water activity, get out of the water right away

What to do after a storm

Even though the storm might have passed, there may still be potential dangers that you need to be aware of.

• Don’t swim in or attempt to cross flooded areas, either on foot or in vehicles
• Stay away from fallen wires and powerlines
• Report any fallen powerlines to your local State Emergency Service (details listed below)
• If you need to, you can lodge a claim with Woolworths Insurance 24/7
• For emergencies, contact your State Emergency Service

 

State and territory emergency services

Handy hint: Save your local emergency service contact details in your phone, so you can access them easily.