NSW North Coast storm season safety check list

Northern Rivers storm, January 2003

Courtesy of The Northern Star on Thursday:

A BLIZZARD of flying hail and roaring wind so loud it masked the sound of a falling tree marked yesterday’s arrival of the storm season.

Scenes of destruction were most obvious just south of Byron Bay, at Suffolk Park, where stripped vegetation littered the ground and the smell of eucalypt and pine wafted in the air.

Be Storm Safe!

Before Storm Season

• Ensure you have an emergency kit with first aid supplies, tinned food and clean containers for drinking water ready just in case.
  
• Prune tree branches well clear of your house or fences.
  
• Have a portable radio and torch with fresh batteries handy.
  
• It is good to have some emergency supplies such as masking tape for glass and plastic sheeting for emergency rain protection.
  
• Clear your yard of loose objects that could become airborne.
  
• Check and clear roof, guttering and downpipes of leaves and debris.

Keep yourself informed as the storm approaches

• Listen to your local radio for updates.
  
• Make sure your pets and animals are safe and protected from the elements.
  
• If possible put your cars under cover or protect them with tarpaulins.
  
• Disconnect all electrical appliances at the wall to avoid electrical surges.
  
• If the storm is severe take precautionary action and put tape across large windows in an X pattern.

When the storm hits

• Stay inside and keep clear of windows. Don't venture outside as you may put yourself in danger unnecessarily.
  
• If you find yourself caught outdoors when the storm hits, find emergency shelter but not under a tree. Stay away from any fallen powerlines and fallen trees.
  
• Listen to your portable radio for storm updates.
  
• Avoid using a land-line telephone during a storm.

When the storm subsides

• Listen to local radio for official warnings/advice.
  
• Check to see if your house has suffered any damage.
  
• Make sure your neighbours and friends are unharmed and see if they need any help.
  
• Beware of potential dangers such as fallen power lines, damaged buildings and trees or flooded watercourses.

Emergency Contacts

State Emergency Service:
For emergency assistance with house damage, and/or advice about temporary accommodation, food and clothing, phone the State Emergency Service on 132 500.

Country Energy
For power failure, water leaks and blockages, fallen power lines, or other electrical problems contact the Country Energy customer service centre at 81-83 Molesworth Street Lismore or phone 13 20 80.

Storm tracker here.