Storm Ready checklists

Before the storm or cyclone

Get ready as extreme weather approaches.

• Remove loose objects that might get broken or cause damage if blown around
• Tie down (or fill with water) large, relatively light things like garbage bins and boats
• Shelter and secure your pets
• Shelter vehicles or cover them with a tarpaulin or blankets - make sure you have a full tank of fuel in case you need and are able to evacuate
• Disconnect electrical appliances
• If floods are likely, move outdoor equipment, cardboard boxes, garbage, chemicals and poisons to somewhere up high
• Fill your sinks and bath with fresh drinking water

Check your emergency kit (see the FESA kit list).

During the storm or cyclone

Stay safe when the storm or cyclone hits.

• Shelter in the strongest part of your home, like the bathroom, cellar, hallway or built-in wardrobe
• If necessary, cover yourself with a mattress, blanket, doona or tarpaulin, under a table
• Stay clear of windows and skylights. Close curtains and blinds to protect against flying glass
• Listen to a portable radio for weather updates
• If flooding is likely, put furniture, TV and rugs as high as you can
• If you're driving, slow down or park away from trees, powerlines and creeks or rivers
• Don't use the landline telephone and disconnect electrical appliances - it's dangerous if there's lightning about
• Don’t shelter under a tree - if you're outside, find solid shelter
• Don’t lie down if you’re caught outside without shelter, crouch down low with your feet together. (You want as little of your body touching the ground as possible to reduce the risk of being struck by lightning)

After the storm or cyclone

Cleaning up after the event.

Inside

• Check your home for damage to windows, walls or roof
• For emergency assistance call your local State Emergency Service
• If returning to your home, make sure electricity and gas is off before going inside. Use only a torch until you're sure there's no gas around
• Check your neighbours are OK
• Remove what excess water you can and mop sodden carpets
• Look out for spiders and snakes that may have moved in to escape the flood
• Don't eat food that's been in contact with floodwater and boil water until supplies have been declared safe

Appliances

• Have gas appliances inspected and cleaned to prevent an explosion or fire
• Check your smoke detectors are still working
• Don't use electrical items that got wet; have them professionally tested

Outside

• Beware of fallen powerlines, damaged trees and flooded creeks
• Look out for snakes and other animals
• If you must enter flood waters, wear solid shoes, not thongs or bare feet, and check the depth and current with a stick
• Stay away from drains, culverts and water that's more than knee-deep
• Don't drive until you know it's safe
• Don't let children play in or near floodwaters

Contact SGIO Helpline on 132 900 for assistance to SGIO policyholders.