The severe storms and heavy rainfall that swept through Wellington recently has been keeping the local NSW SES Unit busy.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Wellington NSW SES Unit Flood Rescue Operator and Trainer, Tyrone Kiernan said they have had 30 requests for assistance for the month, which has included flood rescue and flash flooding on roads.
Rainfall around the region has seen several local rivers and watercourses rise. Due to drought conditions and heavy downpours flash floods have occurred fast.
Other requests for assistance have included fallen trees and branches threatening or damaging property, flash floods and flooded roads, vehicles and passengers stranded in flood waters, and leaking or damaged roofs.
Being storm safe can help reduce the impacts of storms on homes and families.
NSW SES encourages people to be aware of, informed about and prepare their homes for storm events to help prevent the amount of damage suffered in severe weather.
Wellington SES Unit Rescue Operator Lloyd Weston said it's important people prepare properties by maintaining yards, cleaning gutters, trimming overhanging branches, checking roofs, and making emergency plans.
The Wellington NSW SES Rescue Teams volunteer their own time to train and provide this vital service to our community and are always seeking new members.
ALSO MAKING NEWS: How to cope with those close encounters of the wildlife kind
Becoming a volunteer with NSW SES would suit anyone interested in: giving back to the community, seeking new adventures and challenges, learning new skills and achievements, taking on new roles, and becoming an important part of the community and emergency services.
There are eight simple things that you can do now to prepare your home and help reduce the potential damage caused by severe storms:
- Maintain your yard and balcony by keeping them tidy and clear of clutter and securing or storing loose items and objects.
- Clean your gutters, downpipes and drains regularly to prevent blockages.
- Trim trees and branches that could potentially fall on your home or property and have trees inspected by an expert arborist or tree surgeon. Trees can be affected by weather, age, insect borers, dry rot, white ants, root damage or weakness, soil and water saturation which may not be apparent and makes them more vulnerable to damage from strong wind gusts and heavy rainfall.
- Fix roof damage, including gutters and broken or missing tiles.
- Check your insurance policy is current and adequate.
- Prepare a Home Emergency Plan for your family that outlines what you would do in an emergency
- Prepare an emergency kit with essential items in case you lose power or need to leave home in an emergency.
- Listen to your local radio station and other media for weather warnings, updates and emergency advice.
