Stormy festive season ahead

The NSW State Emergency Service is urging everyone to stay StormSafe this festive season with the threat of severe storms to continue throughout summer. The Bureau of Meteorology has predicted up to 100 storms will affect New South Wales and the NSW SES has already been busy responding to damaging storms in many areas of the state.

Since the official start of the storm season in October, NSW SES volunteers have been called out to 2,448 storm and flood jobs.

NSW SES Commissioner Murray Kear said it’s important for people to be extra vigilant over summer.

“With more people on the roads during the festive period it’s vital that people remember to drive to the conditions in rough weather. Delaying your travel plans until the weather clears is always your safest option,” Commissioner Kear said.

“Holidaymakers should also be aware of the weather forecast in their area and have an emergency plan ready if a severe storm hits,” he said.

“Rivers, creeks and streams can rise quickly during storms so it’s important particularly for campers to be aware of the conditions and move out of the area if bad weather sets in,” he said.

“By using a bit of common sense you and your family can have a safe and enjoyable Christmas and New Year. If you come across a flooded road on your travels, don’t drive through it. If it means delaying your travel plans, that is a better option than risking your life and the lives of your family,” Commissioner Kear said.

“We’d also like people to start preparing their homes and businesses now to limit the amount of damage suffered in a storm. The best time to prepare for a storm is when you’re not in the middle of one,” he added.

The NSW SES advises people to:

• Clean gutters and downpipes
• Trim overhanging branches
• Secure or put away loose items around the yard and balcony
• Prepare an emergency kit for when you lose power or have to leave your home in a hurry
• Keep your vehicle parked under cover or away from trees and power lines
• For emergency help in a storm call the NSW SES on 132 500
• Dial 000 (triple zero) in life threatening situations

For more useful storm safety tips go to: www.stormsafe.com.au or download the StormSafe app from the iTunes or Android stores.