With the storm season looming, the NSW SES and NRMA Insurance are encouraging central west residents to get ‘storm safe’ and help reduce the amount of damage caused in severe weather.
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NSW SES volunteers spent more than 90,000 hours responding to more than 12,000 call-outs across the state during the last storm season.
“Most of the damage we saw was from trees crashing down on homes and vehicles as well as leaking and damaged roofs,” NSW SES central west region commander Craig Ronan said.
“Many of these call-outs were preventable so we’re asking people to prepare their homes and businesses now for the impending storm season.
“A simple way you can get started on your preparations in by completing the online home emergency plan at seshomemergencyplan.com.au”.
NRMA Insurance data shows that during the last financial year, almost half of all home insurance claims were made as a result of storm damage.
This number surges during storm season with 77 per cent of annual storm-related claims occurring between October and March.
“Forty-six per cent of all our home insurance claims during the last financial year were a result of storm damage,” NRMA Insurance community and sustainability operations manager Lee McDougall said. “However, our research has found that despite this, nearly three quarters of families in NSW say they have not made preparations for severe storms.
“Of those that haven’t taken steps to protect their homes, 60 per cent don’t see any need to prepare while a further 30 per cent say they do not know where to start.”
Ms McDougall says doing a little can save a lot.
“Cleaning your gutters, trimming overhanging branches and checking that your home and contents insurance is up to date are all simple steps people can take to prepare for the upcoming storm season.”
Simple things you can do:
Maintain your yard and balcony – secure or store items that could blow around in strong winds;
Clean your gutters, downpipes and drains regularly to prevent blockages;
Trim trees and branches that could fall on your home or property;
Fix any damage to your roof, including broken or missing tiles;
Check your insurance policy is current and adequate;
Make 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 local radio and other media for weather warnings.
For more information go to stormsafe.com.au