Preparing for winter

The Shire of Harvey is encouraging residents to become familiar with official storm advice in preparation for winter.

Storms can involve damaging winds, flash flooding, lightning and hail, which can cause damage to homes, cars, roads and vegetation, as well as disrupting essential services like electricity, water and gas.

When a storm is 24 hours away, DFES recommends:

• Trim branches around your home to prevent them falling on your roof or car.
• Clear gutters and downpipes so they do not overflow after heavy rain.
• Store or weigh down loose objects around your home that could be picked up and thrown by strong winds, causing damage or injury.
• Prepare an emergency kit with a battery operated radio, torch, spare batteries and first aid kit.
• Organise an emergency plan, including a plan to evacuate for your family and pets in case your home becomes flooded.

When a storm is 6 to 24 hours away, DFES recommends:

• Ensure pets and animals are in a safe area.
• Move vehicles under cover.
• Boat owners should securely moor their boats.
• Campers should find safe shelter away from trees, powerlines, storm water drains and streams.
• Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephone if there is lightning.
• If you are away from home contact family or friends to prepare your property.

When a storm is less than 6 hours away, DFES recommends:

• Close your curtains and blinds and stay inside away from windows.
• If outside, find safe shelter away from trees, powerlines, storm water drains and streams.
• Unplug electrical appliances and avoid using landline telephones if there is lightning.
• If there is flooding, create your own sandbags and place them around doorways to protect your home.
• If boating, swimming or surfing, leave the water.

If driving:

• Do not drive into water of unknown depth and current.
• Slow down, turn your lights on and keep a safe distance from other drivers.
• Be alert and watch for hazards on the road such as fallen powerlines and loose debris.
• If it is raining heavily and you cannot see, pull over and park with your hazard lights on until the rain clears.

More information about preparing for a storm can be found on the DFES website.

Staying informed during a storm:

• Emergency WA website
• DFES Facebook
• DFES Twitter
• Call DFES 133 337
• ABC local radio
• Bureau of Meteorology
• Main Roads WA or call 138 138