How to Prepare Your Property for Severe Weather

As extreme weather events become more frequent, it’s essential to prepare your home and property to minimize damage and ensure the safety of your loved ones. At Red Dog Property Inspections, we believe in proactive measures to help homeowners withstand storms, heavy rainfall, and high winds. Follow this checklist to safeguard your property against severe weather conditions.

Emergency Contacts

• SES: Call 132 500 for non-life-threatening emergencies, such as floods, storms, damaged roofs, and fallen trees on buildings.
• Emergency Services: Call 000 (Triple Zero) for life-threatening emergencies.
• Lodge an SES request online: SES Web App
• Non-urgent medical help: Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)
• Non-emergency police contact: Police link on 13 14 44
• Energex: Report power outages or electrical hazards at 13 62 62

Preparing Your Home for Severe Weather

Secure Loose Items

• Move outdoor furniture, pot plants, umbrellas, and any loose items indoors or to a secure area.
• For larger items like trampolines, secure them in a sheltered place and tie them down if necessary.

Prepare Water Supplies

• If water supply becomes disconnected or contaminated, ensure you have enough water stored.
• It’s recommended to have 10L of water per person for three days.
• Fill up drink bottles and, if needed, a bathtub to store additional water.

Assemble an Emergency Kit

• Keep a first aid kit, torches, extra batteries, and candles on hand.
• Charge all essential devices, including mobile phones and power banks.

Check on Your Neighbours

• Offer to help elderly or vulnerable neighbours secure their property.
• After the storm, check in to ensure everyone is safe and has what they need.

Protect Your Pets

• Bring animals indoors or ensure they have a secure, sheltered space.
• Keep pets on a leash if you need to take them outside, as loud noises can cause them to panic and run away.

Park Your Vehicle Safely

• Park your car away from trees, power lines, and low-lying areas prone to flooding.
• Ensure your vehicle has enough fuel in case evacuation is required.

Identify a Safe Space in Your Home

• The safest place is usually a bathroom, walk-in wardrobe, or hallway away from large windows.
• Avoid staying near glass windows and doors during high winds or hailstorms.

General Safety Tips

• Never drive through floodwaters – even a small amount of moving water can be extremely dangerous.
• Be aware of flash flooding and avoid walking or driving through affected areas.
• Have an evacuation plan in place and ensure all family members know the designated emergency exit points.

At Red Dog Property Inspections, we encourage all homeowners to take these steps to ensure their safety and the integrity of their homes. Stay prepared, stay safe, and always follow local emergency updates during extreme weather events.

For more property safety tips and professional inspections, contact Red Dog Property Inspections today!