What to Watch Out for During Cyclone Season
While Australia’s dreaded cyclone season is set to end on April 30th, 2018, Mother Nature tends not to follow specific date rulings, so it’s wise to be prepared for whatever she may throw at you – literally and figuratively – and learn some basics of cyclone safety.
Step 1: Prevention & Preparation
Your best bet of reducing property damage during a cyclone is to adequately prepare your home ahead of time.
Start by moving all of your most treasured valuables to higher elevation spots in your home, as well as cutting down any heavy branches or dangling limbs that may fall and cause damage to your roof or car. Prepare for high winds by removing or securing any loose outdoor furniture or indoor materials that could damage you or your home, and fit shutters to all glass windows. If you’ve been looking for a way to get rid of your significant other’s hideous beloved chair, don’t miss the perfect opportunity to blame it on the weather.
In the event of major flooding, be prepared to leave your home, and know a few routes that offer a safe environment at higher elevation. Emergency kit essentials you may want to prep ahead of time also include batteries, bottled water, canned food, matches, cooking supplies, duct tape, dry bags, first aid kit, petrol, torch, and a charged power bank for recharging your devices.
Step 2: Reaction & Evacuation
In the event of a cyclone watch or warning, be sure to top up your car with petrol and fill any available water containers. Double check with family members and neighbours to make sure they know the situation, and keep an eye on local alerts and announcements.
Secure any final loose items around your home, board up or tape your windows, and park your car away from areas where it could be easily damaged. Pack up any necessary paperwork or important belongings in waterproof bags, and wear closed-in shoes and layered clothing.
In the event of an evacuation, leave as early as possible to avoid traffic, debris and flooding, and follow directions given by local police and emergency officials. Be sure to unplug appliances and turn off your power, gas and water. If evacuating with children, be sure to grab a few extra toys or books, and blankets and pillows if relocating to a public shelter.
Step 3: Damage Evaluation & Clean-Up
While returning home to assess the damage, remember not to touch any electrical appliances if you think they have been water damaged. Also beware of driving on roads with flooding and debris, and don’t make any unnecessary trips or errands.
Should you find your plumbing has been damaged during the storm, be sure to give us a call for help and we’d be happy to assist.
Cyclone Season: The Don’ts
And just in case some of you prefer learning through visualisation of what not to do, we highly recommend avoiding the following activities in the event of a pending or current cyclone threat:
We would wish you a happy cyclone season, but that’s not exactly a nice thing to do. Happy cyclone avoidance and safety season! Doesn’t quite have the same ring to it, but you see what we’re going for.
If you encounter any post-storm plumbing issues or require a general quote from an honest and reliable plumber, get in touch with Jeff MacDonald Plumbing today on 07 5535 5591
