Severe Storm Action Guide

English

 

 


 

BEFORE THE STORM SEASON

  • Trim tree branches well clear of your house.
  • Have a portable radio and torch with fresh batteries.
  • Have a first aid kit (and basic knowledge).
  • List your emergency contact numbers.
  • Clear yard of loose objects.
  • Clean and check roof, guttering and downpipes.
  • Familiarise your family with this storm action guide.
  • Have masking tape (for glass), plastic sheeting and large garbage bags (for emergency rain protection).

AS THE STORM APPROACHES

  • Listen to local radio for information.
  • Shelter and secure pets and animals.
  • Shelter vehicles or cover with tarpaulin/blankets.
  • Disconnect all electrical appliances.
  • Tape (cross fashion 'x') or cover large windows.

WHEN THE STORM STRIKES

  • Stay inside and shelter well clear of windows, in the strongest part of the house (bathroom, cellar).
  • If necessary, cover yourself with a mattress, blanket, doona or tarpaulin, under a table etc.
  • Listen to your portable radio for storm updates.
  • If outdoors find emergency shelter (not under s tree).
  • If driving, stop clear of trees, power lines or streams.
  • Avoid using the telephone during the storm

AFTER THE STORM PASSES

  • Check your house for damage.
  • Listen to local radio for official warnings/advice.
  • If you need emergency assistance, consult the Emergency Assistance section.
  • If you don't need help, check your neighbours.
  • Beware of fallen power lines, damaged buildings and trees and flooded watercourses.
  • Don't go sight seeing, stay home and help others.

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE (Who and when to call)
Here is a contact list of services to call for assistance after a severe storm. Copy these phone numbers down and keep them in a safe place near the phone. Enter phone numbers now, don't wait until a storm strikes. Look in your local directory on the page for 'all other emergencies' (referred to on inside cover), or in the state government, or general pages. Note 24hr emergency numbers if listed. Avoid using the phone during storms (lightning danger)

STATE/TERRITORY EMERGENCY SERVICE
Call your nearest unit for emergency assistance with house damage, and/or advice about temporaryaccommodation, food and clothing. Ipswich District - State Emergency Service 07 3202 1711 other areas look in your local white pages

ELECTRICITY AUTHORITY
Call Energex power failure, fallen power lines, or other electrical problems. Ipswich District - Energex 13 62 62 other areas look in your local white pages

WATER BOARD/AUTHORITY
Call your nearest depot if your household water supply is damaged or interrupted.
Ipswich District Ð Ipswich City Council 3810 6666 other areas look in your local white pages

GAS COMPANY/AUTHORITY
Call your local office for gas emergencies.
Ipswich District Ð Gas 13 25 95 other areas look in your local white page

INSURANCE COMPANY
If you have sustained damage to property call your insurance company immediately to request information on what to do next and to arrange approved tradespeople to repair your home. THIS IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY.

POLICE, FIRE, AMBULANCE

Dial 000

If unable to contact emergency services by phone:

  • Listen to the radio for official warnings or advice.
  • Form a self-help group with family and neighbours.
  • Watch for emergency services crews who will be checking your area as soon as possible.

Brought to you by Ipswich City Council Emergency Management Service.
Developed, sponsored and published by Emergency Management

 

 

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