Storm preparation: How to keep a roof over your head

THE weather in this region is great. But sometimes it's a killer.

Extreme thunderstorms, monsoonal rain, huge cyclones, flash floods, king tides and swollen rivers have swept away lives and property.

Residents need to prepare for the worst - and the best thing that can happen is that your preparation is wasted in an uneventful summer.

Here are our tips for keeping a roof over your head this storm season:

General maintenance:

• Keep the roof in good condition and check it regularly.
• Keep gutters and downpipes clear so water can drain quickly.
• Trim trees and overhanging branches close to the house (beware powerlines).
• Check and fix corrosion, rotten timber, termite infestations and loose fittings.

Before storm season:

• Ensure home, contents and car insurance are current and adequate. Ensure your policy includes debris clean-up and removal.
• Identify your strongest room to shelter in during a severe storm or cyclone.
• Identify where and how to turn off mains supply for water, power and gas.
• Have items such as water storage containers, spare fuel for your vehicle (store it safely), camp stove and fuel for cooking without power.

If you live in a flood-prone area:

• Store all poisons and garden chemicals well above ground level.
• Identify indoor items you will need to raise or empty if flood threatens.
• Consider alternatives to carpet and relocate power- points to well above previous flood levels (using a licensed contractor).
• Prepare your own sandbags to protect your home.

If you live in an area prone to cyclones or severe storms:

• Arrange for a professional builder to check your building and identify ways you can increase the structural security of your home to withstand high winds.
• Fit windows with shutters or metal screens for added protection during high winds.

When warnings are issued for a cyclone or severe storm:

• Disconnect electrical appliances and external television / radio aerials and turn off electricity and gas main supplies if instructed to do so.
• Secure outdoor furniture and garden items.
• Fill buckets and bath with clean water in case of interruptions to water supply.
• Close windows with shutters or tape windows with strong tape. Draw curtains.

When warnings are issued for a flood:

• Disconnect all your electrical appliances.
• Move outdoor equipment, garbage, chemicals and household poisons to a higher location.
• Empty and raise freezers / refrigerators and stack or move your furniture, valuables and electrical items off site.
• Sandbag internal drains and toilets to prevent sewage backflow.
• Move livestock, plant and feed to higher ground.