Step 1: Preparation

• Prepare a storm kit. This should include non-perishable food, matches, a first aid kit, blankets, a torch, a battery-powered radio, and plenty of fresh batteries.
• Ensure everyone in the household knows how to switch off the mains electricity, water and gas supplies if required.
• Make sure that important documents such as passports are stored together in a waterproof bag, in case of emergency evacuation.

• Trim back any tree branches overhanging your home.
• Gutters, downpipes and drains should be cleaned regularly to allow maximum waterflow away from the roof.
• Ensure roof sheets or tiles are intact and fully secure.
• All loose items that are outside should either be brought inside or securely tied down.

Step 2: Emergency alerts

Some councils offer an early warning alert service which will notify you of incoming storms via email, SMS or recorded messages to a landline. Check your local council’s website to see if they offer this service.

• The Weatherzone app (available for Android and Apple devices) allows you to receive notifications straight to your phone of official weather warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology.

Step 3: During the storm

• Stay inside. If you are outside, seek shelter in a solid building or a metal-roofed vehicle. Do not shelter under trees.
• If shelter is unreachable, crouch down, feet together and well away from any other people.
• If your hair stands on end or you hear nearby objects buzzing, move immediately. This indicates lightning is about to strike near you.
• Avoid driving. If you are caught out driving when a storm hits, use extreme care.
• Bring pets inside and ensure all windows are secured shut.
• Check for conditions updates. Updates are available through a variety of channels (TV, internet, phone apps, local radio), however, as power, internet and phone services may be interrupted, a battery-operated radio will offer the most resilient means of staying up to date. ABC Local Radio provide regular updates.
• If your house is threatened by a storm surge, ensure the mains power is switched off.
• If you need help, call your local SES unit. If there is a life-threatening emergency, call 000.

Step 4: After the storm

• Check your home and possessions for damage. Take photographs of damage for insurance purposes.
• If your house has suffered any flooding, do not switch power on until it has been inspected professionally.
• If your house is unsafe, notify your local council and check your insurance policy to see if you can claim temporary housing expenses.
• Avoid driving – roads may be blocked and structurally unsafe to drive on.