Storm Safety Guide

B E

P R E P A R E D

MAYOR MARK jAMIESON

Chair Sunshine Coast Local Disaster Management Group

This week is Get Ready Queensland Week and Sunshine Coast Council is urging all of our 300,000 residents to check their ‘WHAT-IF?’ plan and get ready for the upcoming disaster season.

Get Ready Queensland Week is the perfect time for us all to think about how we can prepare for any severe weather events summer may have in store.

We all love living in Queensland. However, it is the most vulnerable state in Australia to natural disasters, exposing our communities and infrastructure to repeated damage from devastating cyclones, floods and other natural disaster events.

When it comes to extreme weather events in our region, it’s not a matter of “if” but “when”.

On the Sunshine Coast in 2017 we have already had to deal with the effects of ex-Tropical Cyclone Debbie and major bushfires that have caused evacuations, but fortunately only limited damage.

Experience shows that communities that are well prepared and supported before a disaster occurs are more resilient and able to recover faster.

So please head to council’s award-winning Disaster Hub website – disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au – to find out what to do before, during and after a disaster or emergency.

And please sign up to our new Coast Alert notification service by downloading the Sunshine Coast Council app (search for SCC app).

Taking the time to be prepared now is a very wise investment.

Storm Safety Guide is published in Yandina, 54 Pioneer Road. Those who make advertising placement and/or supply copy material or editorial submissions to the magazine undertake to ensure that all such material does not infringe the Trade Practices Act or other laws, regulations or statutes. Further to the above-mentioned, these persons agree to indemnify the publisher and/or its agents against any investigations, claims or judgements.

“

When it comes to extreme weather events in our region, it’s not a matter of “if” but “when.”

CONTENTS

ARE YOU STORM READY? ⁄4 UpgRADES TO COUNCIL AND SES FACILITIES ⁄ 6 pROCEDURES IN DIFFERENT TYpES OF EMERgENCIES ⁄ 7 EMERgENCY AND EVACUATION KIT CHECKLIST ⁄ 8 pREpARE YOUR pETS ⁄ 9 CAR SAFETY ⁄ 10

photo: john McCutcheon/SCD

pREpARINg YOUR BUSINESS ⁄ 11 MEET SES VOLUNTEER BRENDAN CASEMENT ⁄ 12 SES q&A ⁄ 13 STORM SAFETY AppS ⁄ 14 DOS AND DON’TS AFTER A STORM ⁄ 14 EMERgENCY CONTACTS ⁄ 15

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

3

ARE you stoRm READy? tips to prepare for a storm

Storm season is upon us, and while we may have become accustom to powerful and unpredictable storms as a part of the Queensland way of life, it’s vital to be prepared.

Here’s a few tips during the storm season to help minimise the damage on your home and keep your family safe.  Trim trees and branches close to the house, but call a professional tree trimmer if they’re near powerlines.

 Make sure your pet’s registration and tags are current.

Pre-storm checklist:

 Stock up on food, water and medicine for your pets.

 Secure outdoor furniture and gardening items.  Tape glass on exposed windows and secure all doors.

TuNE iNTO warNiNgS

 Park vehicles under cover or protect with secured

When a severe weather warning or storm alert has been issued for the Sunshine Coast, ensure you gain as much information as possible to help you prepare and protect your family and home.

Tune in

 Secure loose items in your backyard.

 Check your roof regularly to ensure it’s in good condition.  Make sure all shades, sails and awnings are fitted properly.

 Ensure your car has a full tank of fuel.  Turn off and unplug electrical items and turn off power, water and gas if instructed.

 To the local radio and TV station for updates.

 Clear gutters, downpipes and drains.

tarpaulins or blankets.

 Ensure mobile phone batteries are fully charged.

Log on

 Stay indoors as the storm approaches and ensure

 To the Sunshine Coast Council’s website:

pets/farm animals are secured safely under shelter.

www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

 Store your important documents, medical prescriptions and

 Get your insurance up-to-date.

Listen out

valuables in a waterproof container in a secure location like

 Identify the safest room in the house to shelter during a storm.

 For the Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS) – this is the

your car boot.

 Identify a safe place to evacuate to should a storm surge or flood threaten.  Ensure you know how to safely turn off your power, water and gas.  Check your emergency kit is up-to-date with water containers, a barbeque or another gas or coal cooking appliance.

siren used at the beginning of storm warning announcements on radio and TV.

Post-storm checklist:

 For warning sirens and announcements made by

 Check on neighbours and friends who may need special assistance.

emergency services.

4

 Don’t go exploring.

 For emergency services personnel who may knock on your door.

 Act quickly on advice given by emergency services.

Just one Call does it all!

• Surge Diverters (keep all electronics safe) from $150.00 • Smoke Alarms (get rid of battery type and install interconnected from $85.00 (minimum 4)

• Testing of Safety switches (safety switches save lives!)

• Servicing of A/C units

Ph: 07 5445 5948

Fax: 07 5476 7619 Email: admin@ikonelectrical.com.au Address: 3/29-31 Fred Chaplin Circuit, Bells Creek Website: www.ikonelectrical.com.au

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

Lic: 68732 ARC: AU37715 6694811aa

today

warnings and advice.

 For Emergency Alert messages on your landline and mobile phone.

Call us to maKe sure you are saFe in a storm Phone or email us

 Ensure that every household member knows about

Details on road closures and current trafďŹ c accidents as reported by Sunshine Coast Council and the Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Current unplanned and emergency power outages as provided by Energex.

A list of current warnings for the region provided by both council and the Bureau of Meteorology.

Evacuation Centres

Planned Power Outages

Council has identified a number of evacuation centres for potential use in the case of an emergency or disaster.

Current scheduled power outages as provided by Energex.

INFRAstRuCtuRE uPGRADEs When Sunshine Coast Council builds a new bridge, upgrades a popular skate park or widens a major road, it’s hard to miss.

But there are some projects within council’s $237 million Capital Works program this year you probably won’t notice – and it’s those that could make the biggest difference when storm season hits.

Council has upgraded SES facilities and established a second Field Coordination Centre in Caloundra to help the Local Disaster Management group (LDMg) coordinate urgent repairs during severe weather events. It is also investigating power supply improvements for evacuation centres, with some upgrades to be made later this financial year.

Council’s Acting Coordinator Disaster Management Cathy Buck said improvements to the Woombye SES depot would make it easier for volunteers to prepare for and respond during storms.

“After finding a new home for the Nambour SES group in Woombye last year, council has added new amenities block with toilets and showers, a kitchenette, additional office spaces, a meeting room and a large training space,” Ms Buck said.

“Having these essential facilities will help with weekly training sessions and make it much easier for the volunteers during extended periods of operation when a hot shower makes a world of difference.”

Upgrading the Caloundra council depot to be suitable as a Field Coordination Centre means the LMDg can still coordinate with field crews if the Maroochydore centre is not accessible during an emergency event.

Council also allocated a portion of its get Ready queensland program disaster preparedness funding towards a new sandbagging machine for the SES, making it faster and easier to fill up the bags ahead of the next severe weather event.

Johnson QPS, Cameron Herbert QFES, Cathy Buck SCC, Mayor Mark Jamieson, Bill Haddrill SCC.

Now Is thE tImE to GEt READy FoR extreme weather Major fires and an ex-tropical cyclone have already hit the Sunshine Coast region this year, showing how important it is for our community to be fully prepared for extreme weather events.

“When it comes to extreme weather events in our region, it’s not a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when’.”

As part of Get Ready Week 2017 underway throughout Queensland, Sunshine Coast Council is encouraging the community to sign up to its latest information tool, Coast Alert, to keep up-to-date when a potential disaster event looms.

Acting Local Disaster Management Group Coordinator Bill Haddrill said Get Ready Week was a timely reminder for residents and businesses to be prepared for disaster events.

Coast Alert can be accessed via the council app and provides warnings and vital information when the region is threatened.

“While our LDMG is always here to help when disaster hits, resources are often stretched so it’s important for everyone to prepare in advance of the summer storm season, to have an emergency plan in place, to organise an emergency kit and prepare an evacuation plan,” Mr Haddrill said.

It operates in conjunction with the award-winning Disaster Hub website which features updates on road closures, current warnings, flood maps, evacuation centres, links to traffic cameras, and Sunshine Coast Airport updates.

Local Disaster Management Chair Mayor Mark Jamieson said a three-step approach of downloading Coast Alert, checking out the resources of Disaster Hub and undertaking a small amount of preparation now would ensure you are ready in the event of a natural disaster.

“We can’t afford to be complacent because recent events in our backyard have shown that the weather can change very quickly,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“We only have to think back to the damage caused by ex-Cyclone Debbie when it moved through our region – although in many ways it was a lucky escape.

“There’s always the potential for other events such as bushfires and it’s fresh in our minds how the diligent work of our emergency services personnel saved us from more serious impacts west of Coolum and south of Caloundra, in particular, already in 2017.

6

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

“We need to have our gutters cleaned out and loose items secured and have a plan in place for our pets.

“And if disaster does occur, put those plans into action, tune into warnings and check on your neighbours.”

Businesses are invited to attend free information sessions later this month to find out how they can be prepared for the storm season and minimise any impacts that occur.

The sessions are at Lake Kawana Community Centre (October 24, 7.30am), Maroochy RSL (October 24, 5.30pm) and Maleny Community Centre (October 25, 7.30am).

To access all of the information on Disaster Hub, go to disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

whAt to Do IN DIFFERENt wEAthER sCeNarios Source: www.bom.gov.au

wEaThEr EvENT

Inside

Outside

In vehicle

Flooding

Be prepared to move to higher ground if your home is in a low-lying area.

Do not walk through flash foods.

Seek shelter.

Do not drive through flooded areas.

Lightning

Before the storm hits unplug appliances (including radio, television and computers) and do not touch electrical items or telephones during the storm.

get inside, whether it be a vehicle or building, seek shelter.

You should be safe in the car but may receive a shock if you step outside, so stay in vehicle with windows closed.

Do not drive, wait. Avoid touching metal parts of vehicle.

Close windows and doors and keep away from windows, doors and fireplaces.

Don’t go outside unless it is necessary.

If no shelter is available, crouch down, feet close together with head tucked down.

Avoid water and objects that conduct electricity such as golf clubs, umbrellas, metal fences etc.

Do not stay in open spaces or under tall objects such as trees, poles etc.

Don’t park under trees or other tall objects that may fall over in storm.

Be wary of downed power lines that may be touching your car.

Hail

Stay away from windows and glass doors. Be alert for signs of high winds or cyclones (especially if hail is large) and follow cyclone precautions if necessary.

Seek cover, face away from wind and protect your head.

Keep head and face away from windows.

Cyclone/high winds

Stay inside with doors and windows shut. go to a small, interior room or stairwell on the lowest floor of the building (bathrooms are often best choice).

Seek shelter in a building, not a car or caravan. If no shelter is available, lie flat in low dry spot or under a low bridge but keep alert for flash floods. protect your head. As a last resort, hang on tightly to the base of a shrub or small tree.

Do not stay in a vehicle or caravan and do not try to outdrive a cyclone. If possible, run to nearby solid shelter or building.

Stay away from windows, doors, and exterior walls. If possible, crouch under heavy furniture. protect your head with cushion or mattress.

If no solid structure is nearby, lie flat in dry ditch. Keep alert for flash floods and protect your head.

photo: john McCutcheon/SCD

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

7

PREPARING youR EmERGENCy ENCy AND EvACuAtIoN kits For many emergencies you may be able to ‘shelter in place’. This could be at home or at work. If so, your ability to securely see out the emergency will be greatly increased if you have an emergency or evacuation kit. You need to take the time to prepare an emergency and evacuation kit well ahead of any impending disaster.

8

EmERGENCy KIt ChECKlIst

EvACuAtIoN KIt ChECKlIst



freSH waTer for THree DayS



BlankeT



THree DayS’ worTH of non-periSHaBle fooD anD can opener



Sleeping Bag



firST aiD kiT



kiDS ToyS/enTerTainmenT



porTaBle raDio



pillowS



TorcH



warm cloTHeS



STurDy gloVeS



ValuaBleS anD memenToS



Spare BaTTerieS for raDio, TorcH anD moBile pHone



eSSenTial meDicaTion



moBile pHone anD cHarger



imporTanT DocumenTS in SealeD BagS anD caSH



BaBy formula anD nappieS



ToileTrieS



eSSenTial meDicaTion



moBile pHone anD cHarger



imporTanT DocumenTS in SealeD BagS anD caSH



BaBy formula anD nappieS



waTerproof BagS



ToileTrieS

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

Include items you will need for at least three days.

There could be disruption to essential services such as power and water supplies.

Also, include the equipment you’ll need to prepare meals with no power.

Keep your kit in a waterproof storage container and store in an easy-to-access location.

Check your kit every three months.

preparing an evacuation kit now can save you time and stress in the event of cyclone, storm tide, flood or tsunami.

Being prepared in advance is very helpful if you live in a low-lying coastal area or an area prone to flooding.

Keep your kit in a waterproof storage container and store in an easy-to-access location.

Check your kit every three months.

PREPARE youR pets It is up to you to prepare for the safety and welfare of your pets in case of an emergency.

BE PREPARED

   

include your animals in household emergency plans. properly identify your pets (e.g. name tags, microchip or band). keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display.

Be aware that some evacuation centres may not accept animals so plan alternatives accordingly.

ACT EARLy

  

if moving animals to a safer place, do so early to avoid unnecessary risk. ensure there is access to plenty of food and water. if staying at home secure animals in good time so that they do not take flight.

BE ConsiDERATE if you have to leave pets behind:

   

if possible, leave your pets indoors. place pets in separate rooms with small or preferably no windows (e.g. laundry, bathroom). provide adequate food and water in large heavy bowls. if left outside, do not tie them up.

PLEAsE noTE Your pet will only be accepted into an evacuation centre if it is contained in a carry cage or wearing a muzzle.

No exceptions can be made.

Here’s what to do if it is not possible to take your pet with you to a temporary evacuation shelter:  Secure animals inside before an

emergency event, so that they do not take flight or run away.

 It may be possible for your pet to be

boarded in a safe environment away from the emergency zone.

 If you are able to house your animal

in a temporary foster home, again take all the essentials; food, water, water bowl, leash, crate/carrier, newspaper/sanitation, blanket, toy, medications.

ACT sAFE

 

your safety, and that of your family, is paramount.

Don’t risk human life trying to find and protect pets.

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

9

GEnERAL CAR PREPARATions 

ensure your car insurance is up-to-date and it covers your assets adequately.



Store a spare supply of fuel and ensure you retain it safely in an appropriate container.



Have wide masking tape for car windows on standby.



Store blankets or a hail cover in your car.



keep bottled water and dry food/snacks in your car if you are caught away from home as well as a mobile phone charger.



check your street and suburb for flood prone areas and be aware.

WHEn A sEvERE WEATHER WARninG is issuED

whAt to Do wIth youR CAR BEFoRE AND DuRING A storm More than half of flood related deaths in Queensland are due to people driving through floodwater.

It’s a tough fact to swallow, but despite the Queensland Government’s well-known “if it’s flooded, forget it” message, too many people continue to drive though dangerous floodwaters in the heat of the moment.



park vehicles undercover.

Whatever the reason, don’t be tempted to drive though floodwater. Here’s how to be prepared to avoid the roads when flash flooding strikes.



if you don’t have undercover access for your vehicles, firmly secure blankets or quilts over them to minimise hail damage and park away from trees, power lines and waterways.

 If you or a family member requires regular medication, ensure it is available in any location you may find yourself stuck (school, childcare center, workplace or your vehicle).

ADviCE FoR FLooD DAmAGED vEHiCLEs 



if floodwater has gotten into the lower levels of your car doors or has entered the engine bay, do not attempt to start the engine until a mechanic has checked it.

Before using the vehicle, drain, and replace all contaminated fuels, oils, and fluids to minimise damage.

 Think about the roads you regularly use, take into account the ones which generally flood and plan alternatives.  If a storm warning is issued, plan work arrangements. Discuss options with your employer for a delayed start, early finish or working from home.  Come to terms with the fact that your best and safest plan may be to avoid travel altogether.

Sometimes your only option will be to wait it out.  Consider alternative modes of transport, such as trains.



a buildup of debris under the vehicle can damage mechanical components or lead to clogging of cooling systems and overheating.

 Talk with schools and childcare centres about alternative after-care arrangements if you are unable to collect children on time.



ensure the key safety components, such as steering and brakes, are functioning correctly after any water exposure.

 Keep a list of emergency phone numbers in your car, including friends, family, school, work, neighbours and local emergency numbers.  Keep a mobile phone charger in the car or at work.

10

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

PREPARING youR BUsiNess What would you do if a storm damaged your livelihood? The best way for your business to cope with a natural disaster is to have a plan before it strikes.

Here’s a checklist to help prepare your business for storm season.

BE PREPARED



compile a list of current emergency phone numbers, including the local police, fire, ambulance, State emergency Service, Sunshine coast council, gas and electricity companies and staff contacts.



allocate tasks for each staff member to prepare the business for a storm.



ensure enough stock is on hand to supply your business and customers in the critical period after the event.



Store a battery powered radio, torch and spare batteries.



Store a generator (if applicable) and sufficient supply of fuel.



Store a first aid kit and first aid manual.



check your building is in a sound condition, especially the roof and eaves.



Trim overhanging branches, clear the property of any loose items that could become missiles during extreme winds.



Store personal protective equipment – gloves, masks, disinfectant and safety glasses.



Store waterproof bags for valuables.



Back up your data and secure your backups in a safe place.



identify what is required to recover your programs and data (laptops, pcs, servers) and take the necessary steps to allow this to happen if required.



pack critical documentation (e.g. insurance, financial, legal and identification documents) in a portable waterproof container.

Your one-stop electronics repair shop SERVING YOU AT THREE LOCATIONS: Head office: 5/1 Norval Court Maroochydore Q 4558 Noosa: 4/54 Rene Street Noosaville Q 4566 Caloundra: 13/16 Sydal Street Little Mountain Q 4551

Prese nt or ment time ion th of bo is ad oking at th or se for an e rvice y rep requ airs a est nd re ceive for re pairs abov *Vali e $11 d un 0.00. til 31/ 10/

10% disco u

nt

2018

Phone 5443 6444 www.sunlandtvservice.com info@sunlandtvservice.com Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

6697299aa

for LCD, LED, PLASMA,VIDEO PROJECTORS, HI-FI, Pro-logic Amplifiers,TV Antenna, Satellite TV & more

11

sEs voluNtEER PRoFIlE meet BreNdaN CasemeNt There’s no such thing as a typical SES volunteer, with people of all ages and from all walks of life giving their time to help our community when we need it. Brendan Casement, Deputy Local Controller for the Sunshine Coast Unit, is one of those people.

Tell us about yourself.

I live in Caloundra with my wife, Sarah. We have three children, aged 9, 7 and 9 weeks.

When did you join the sEs and why?

When I joined, I was working as an auxiliary fire fighter and was trying to get into it full-time.

I had friends in the SES and knew it would look good on my application. After I became a full-time firie, I stuck with the SES and have been a member for 12 years now. Sarah joined at the same time for something to do and to give to the community.

What’s one of the most memorable situations you’ve helped with?

During ex-cyclone Debbie we couldn’t keep up with the amount of requests for chainsaw operations, roof tarping and the influx of people needing sandbags. We need people to be prepared before a storm, so we’re not held up filling sandbags.

anyone over 16 can join the SeS. The Sunshine coast unit has eight groups – caloundra, coolum, glass House mountains, kawana, kenilworth, maleny, maroochydore and nambour.

What sort of things do volunteers do?

Sandbagging, tarping roofs, flood boat rescue, helping other agencies (ambulance, police and fire) wherever they need us. During bushfires, we’ll help firies with doorknocking and transporting gear.

What would you tell someone who doesn’t have a lot of time or might be lacking skills?

You’re most definitely welcome if you have no experience. We will teach you everything you need to know – it doesn’t matter if you don’t know how to put a ladder up the right way or how to tie a knot. We also have members who do support roles and help with logistics.

There’s something for everyone and there’s no set amount of volunteer hours.

if someone doesn’t have time to volunteer, what’s something they can do to help instead?

Get your property ready for a storm now. Tidy the yard, clean the gutters, and get a storm kit together. If you can help yourself, you should be proactive so we’re not held up with situations that could have been prevented and are free to help the people who can’t help themselves.

by storm?

12

ABIS Group will help with your emergency storm repair requirements.

1300 130 803 www.abisgroup.com.au

Responsive and Quality Repairs - 24 Hour Make Safes – Comprehensive Consulting Reports Complete Restoration Support When it Matters.

24 years industry experience servicing residential and commercial properties including insurance repairs.

1/13 Runway Drive, Marcoola ABN 81 616 347 829, QBCC 15 038 145 Dedicated Insurance Repairer, Emergency & Restoration Services

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

Australian Building Insurance Services Group

6696455aa

Impacted

youR quEstIoNs ANswERED ABout thE ses Preparing your family and home for a storm is vital, however when disaster strikes, no matter how prepared you may be sometimes you need further assistance.

The State Emergency Service (SES) help prepare for, and respond to, many different types of disasters and emergencies, especially storm and flood events. Read on for everything you need to know about the SES, when to call, when not to call and how to help others by becoming a volunteer.

What does the sEs do?

The State Emergency Service is the primary responder for storm and flood events.

They also provide support to other agencies such as Queensland Police Service through performing additional functions including search and rescue, emergency traffic management, and road crash rescue.

i have some dangerous fallen trees around the house. Who do i call?

SES only chainsaw and remove trees that have fallen and are causing a danger to persons or property.

If you have some non-threatening fallen trees for example on the driveway, call a handyman to remove.

How can sEs help during a flood?

SES assist in emergency flood boat evacuations, provide emergency supplies to flooded communities and also conduct searches in flood waters.

i am preparing my home for storm season and need some general maintenance help.

Can sEs assist?

General maintenance such as cleaning your gutters or fixing the roof is a job for your local handyman, however SES will perform temporary, emergency repairs.

call the State emergency Service on 132 500 if you need assistance in non-life threatening emergency situation during a flood and/or storm event. phone 000 for a life-threatening emergency.

voLunTEER To become a member of the State emergency Service, simply register your interest through the SeS recruitment form available at www.ses.qld.gov.au or phone the Sunshine coast office on 5420 7568.

Will sEs provide a generator?

No, the SES does not provide generators nor water pumps.

How long will it take for the sEs to arrive?

Availability of the SES depends on a number of factors including; how large/severe the event/disaster is, how many other people and houses are affected, who and where the most vulnerable people are and many more factors.

Remember: be respectful of the sEs. SES members are unpaid volunteers who leave their families, homes, jobs and other commitments to go out in terrible conditions to assist vulnerable members of the community.

A cleAn yArd is A sAfe yArd • Locally owned and operated • Skips range from 3m3 to 16m3 • Free quotes • Major Credit Cards Accepted • Servicing Coast to Hinterland

FREE CALL: 1800 23 95 94 | suncoastskips.com.au Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

6696254aa

Give Suncoast Skips a call and get rid of all your extra rubbish before storm season hits

13

stoRm sAFEty APPs sunsHinE CoAsT CounCiL APP The SCC App provides one touch access to a diverse range of council services including the disaster hub. When severe weather is approaching, flood waters are starting to rise or there’s another type of disaster on the Sunshine Coast you will receive CoastAlert notifications.

thE Dos AND DoN’ts after a storm Do Not ✘

Do ✓ 

Bom WEATHER

listen to the radio or other media for updates and advice.



go sightseeing.



let children swim or play in floodwaters.



Touch fallen powerlines. always assume they are live and dangerous and report all fallen powerlines immediately to energex on 13 19 62.



use any electrical appliances that have been wet or damaged. Have them checked by your licensed electrical contractor.



Do your own electrical work. not only is it illegal, it’s also very dangerous. always use a licensed electrical contractor to do all your electrical work.



Touch a damaged switchboard. Stay away from switchboards if they are damaged by water, fire or if lightning is close, and warn others to do the same.

BOM Weather is the Bureau of Meteorology’s weather app, giving you the most accurate weather information as you move around.



check your house and property for damage.

RACQ moBiLE sERviCEs



Stay clear of trees, damaged buildings and waterways.



Stay clear of electrical signs, street lights, electrical cables, foil insulation or other conductive material that may be lying around your house.

The RACq Mobile Services App lets you request roadside assistance, check road condition reports, plan your trip (Android devices only) and find member savings.

FiRsT AiD The Red Cross First Aid App is a free, comprehensive pocket guide to first aid and CpR, giving you access to the most up to date first aid information anytime, anywhere.



check on your neighbours to see if they need help.

sEs AssisTAnCE QLD The SES Assistance qLD App can assist when you or your property are in danger or potential danger associated with a flood or storm in queensland. The State Emergency Service (SES) queensland is a volunteer based organisation designed to empower people to help themselves and others in their community in times of emergency and disaster.

The protection of life is the priority for the SES in these events.

iF iT’s FLooDED, FoRGET iT.

apps available for download and purchase from the iTunes app store or google play.

. . . s u Call

before the you-know what hits the fan

• 24 hrs Emergency Plumbing Sunshine Coast • Blocked drains cleared, high pressure hydro-jet • Blocked toilet cleared quickly • C.C.T.V drain camera for drain inspections • Leaking taps, toilets and water pipes repaired or replaced • Hot water system repairs, replacement and upgrades • Install and replace sewer, storm water pipes • Installation of vanity units, basins & toilets • Bathroom, kitchen & laundry renovations • Tap supply and replacement • Leak detection and repair • Gutter repairs and replacements • Roof leak detection, repairs • Senior’s discounts

www.alltimeplumbing.net.au

14

Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

6696717aa

Call 0451 506 331

EmERGENCy CoNtaCts LiFE THREATEninG EmERGEnCy PoLiCE, FiRE, AmBuLAnCE ...........................................Triple Zero (000) sTATE EmERGEnCy sERviCEs (sEs) ................................................ 132 500

WEBsiTEs

for assistance during a disaster or emergency

sunsHinE CoAsT CounCiL disaster.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au

sunsHinE CoAsT CounCiL in An EmERGEnCy.............................................. 5475 8501 or 1300 007 272

sTATE EmERGEnCy sERviCEs (sEs) www.ses.qld.gov.au

The call centre is open from 8.30am – 5pm, with an emergency answering service available at other times

BuREAu oF mETEoRoLoGy www.bom.gov.au

HosPiTALs sunshine Coast university Hospital..............................................5202 0000 sunshine Coast university Private Hospital ................................5390 6000 nambour General Hospital............................................................. 5470 6600 noosa Private Hospital ................................................................... 5455 9200 Caloundra Health service............................................................... 5436 8500 RoAD CLosuREs .................................................................................. 13 19 40 EnERGEx ......................................................................... (emergency) 13 19 62 ....................................................................................... (loss of supply) 13 62 62

QuEEnsLAnD TRoPiCAL CyCLonE WARninGs ....................... 1300 659 212 QuEEnsLAnD LAnD WEATHER AnD FLooD WARninGs ....... 1300 659 219 QuEEnsLAnD CoAsTAL mARinE WARninGs .......................... 1300 360 427 AusTRALiAn TsunAmi THREAT inFoRmATion .................................................1300 878 6264 (1300 TSunami) QuEEnsLAnD GEnERAL WARninGs (CALL COSTS AppLY) ...........1900 969 922 photo: Warren Lynam/SCD

13 17 60

ARE YOU STORM READY?

HEAD TO BATTERY WORLD AND GET THE ESSENTIALS

ee

m.

BLOCK LITE WITH EVERY PURCHASE OVER $10

1

pe

re d

it

Maroochydore Cnr First Avenue & Aerodrome Rd

FREE Li m

AA & AAA LANTERN BATTERIES BLOCK LITES & MUCH MORE

rc

us

to m

is er. Mention th

ad

to

Caloundra 47 Bowman Rd Storm Safety GUIDe ⁄ october 2017

15

Call us today for competitive rates & good, old fashioned customer service!

DIY •

Builders Equipment • Toilets • Compressors • Nailgun • Trestles • Scaffolding • Cherrypickers • Dingos • Chainsaws • Dropsaws • Waka Pakas

OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK | Mon to Fri: 6.30am to 4.45pm | Sat: 7.00am to 12noon 7 Technology Drive, Warana | We deliver Gympie to Bribie

Page 16

6697861aa

Ph. 5493 4811 | kawanahire.com.au