Be prepared for storm and fire season

As Australia enters bushfire and summer storm season, it’s time to think about the critical importance of being prepared for extreme weather events. 

With increasingly unpredictable climate patterns, bushfires and storms can strike with little warning, causing devastating damage to property, lives, and the environment. 

While there’s no way to guarantee that you won’t be affected by disaster, there are ways to reduce the risks and improve your personal resilience. 

Here are a few tips.

Australia’s diverse landscape means that risks vary from region to region. Whether you're living in a bushfire-prone area or one susceptible to cyclones and other storms, or associated flooding, it’s crucial to understand the specific risks to your home and community. 

• Bushfires: If you live near bushland or rural areas, your home may be at risk. Check the bushfire alert level for your area and use online resources such as the Digital Atlas and state-based digital bushfire prone area maps. 

• Storms: Coastal regions and areas prone to tropical weather systems are more likely to experience damaging winds, hail, and flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) provides forecasts and warnings.

For those in bushfire-prone areas, having a detailed bushfire survival plan is essential. This plan should cover key aspects such as: 

• Evacuation routes: Identify multiple safe evacuation routes from your property and know where the local fire refuge points are located. 

• Stay or go: Decide in advance whether you will stay to defend your home or leave early during a bushfire. If you choose to stay, ensure you have the right equipment, knowledge, and mental readiness to handle the situation. Always follow official advice. If the police or fire services tell you to leave, you should leave. 

• Emergency kit: Prepare a kit with essentials such as bottled water, first aid supplies, non-perishable food, clothing, and important documents in a waterproof container. 

• Prepare your property: Clear leaves and debris from gutters, trim overhanging trees, and maintain a firebreak around your home. If possible, install metal mesh screens on windows and vents to prevent embers from getting into the house. 

Summer storms can bring torrential rain, lightning, and high winds that result in flash flooding, power outages, and structural damage. Here’s how to prepare for these events: 

• Secure loose objects: Items such as outdoor furniture, garden tools, and play equipment should be secured or brought indoors to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles during strong winds. 

• Roof and gutter maintenance: Ensure your roof is in good condition and that gutters and downpipes are clear of debris to reduce the risk of water damage during heavy rain. 

• Install surge protectors: Power surges during electrical storms can damage appliances and electronics. Surge protectors can protect valuable equipment. 

• Flood preparation: If your home is in a flood-prone area, have sandbags ready, and consider raising electrical appliances off the ground. Know your local flood evacuation routes and shelters. 

Ensure that you have reliable access to emergency alerts and updates. 

• Your local ABC and some commercial radio stations will be a key source of information during an emergency. Make sure you have a portable radio with extra batteries. 

• Keep a torch, and batteries, handy in case of blackouts. 

• Always keep your mobile phone fully charged and consider buying a power bank to extend its battery life if required. 

One of the most important things you can do before bushfires or storms occur is review your insurance policies. Ensure your home, contents, and vehicles are adequately covered for the most common risks in your area, such as fire, storm damage, and flooding. 

You may also consider putting aside a small emergency fund in case of temporary displacement or repair costs.