Stormsafe Week 2013

Be StormSafe before the storm hits

Storms inflicted $1.1 billion in loss and damage on Victoria in 2011 alone. That's $3 million a day or $128,000 an hour. Much of this damage is preventable.

That's why Victoria State Emergency Service (SES) is holding StormSafe Week September 9-15.

StormSafe Week encourages everyone to be better prepared for the threat of storms in the community. This year's theme is "prepare now or pay later", highlighting the simple tasks that, if undertaken before a storm hits, can save Victorians a lot of money in the long run.

Actions to take before storms hit include to:

•   Tie down loose outdoor objects and remove loose tree branches to prevent them flying into property or power lines.
•   Clean gutters, downpipes and drains to stop them backing up and sending water into your house’s roof or drains.
•   Park your car under cover and away from trees.
•   Prepare a home emergency plan and kit.

More information about preparing for storms can be found at www.ses.vic.gov.au/stormsafe

SES volunteers will hold events across the State during the week to inform communities about storm risks and ways to prepare. Information about events in your area can be found on the VICSES website at www.ses.vic.gov.au. 

A quiz will be run on Facebook to find out how prepared you are for storms. Visit www.facebook.com/vicses. 

 For SES assistance during a storm call 132 500. In a life-threatening emergency, call 000.