Storm preparation fact sheet

• Trim branches around your property to prevent them falling.
• Hire a contractor to clear trees surrounding power lines.
• Secure any loose outdoor objects, such as furniture.
• Clear gutters and downpipes and check for blockages to avoid overflow during heavy rain.
• Keep an emergency kit handy which includes a battery-operated radio, a torch with spare batteries and a first-aid kit.

• Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged.
• If there’s lightning, unplug electrical appliances and avoid using your landline telephone.
• Always stay indoors and keep away from windows.
• Make sure your pets have adequate shelter.
• In the event of flooding, remember you can make sandbags by filling plastic bags or pillowcases with sand.
• If you find yourself outdoors during a storm, take shelter away from trees, power lines, metal objects, stormwater drains, rivers and streams.

• Turn on your headlights.
• Slow down and maintain a good stopping distance from other vehicles on the road.
• If there’s poor visibility, pull over to a safe location and turn on your hazard lights.
• Be aware that wet roads can be especially slippery after a dry spell.
• Be careful not to oversteer around corners in wet conditions.
• Use cold air to demist windscreens – warm air can make the condition worse at first.
• Avoid puddles and don’t drive into water of unknown depth and current.

• Road conditions: Main Roads WA 138 138.
• Critical assistance: State Emergency Services (SES) 132 500.
• Emergencies only: Police, fire or ambulance 000.
• Weather warnings: Bureau of Meteorology bom.gov.au or 1300 659 213.
• Storm safety advice: Department of Fire & Emergency Services (DFES) dfes.wa.gov.au.
• RAC Insurance Claims team: 13 17 03.
• Vehicle breakdown: RAC Roadside Assistance 13 11 11.

For more information download our fact sheet.