The weatherman Tim Bailey from Channel 10 paid a visit to the Bankstown SES Unit yesterday to help the volunteers promote storm safety.
Storms are the most costly natural disaster to affect New South Wales, causing an average of $217 million damages annually. SES Bankstown Controller David Niven acted as the spokesperson for the SES, chatting with Tim about ways in which households and businesses are able to prepare for the possibility of severe sttorms during the summer storm season.
David gave six tips to help prepare for storms. These tips are:
1. Clear debris from gutters and downpipes
2. Keep your roof in good repair
3. Trim overhanging branches from buildings, sheds and carports
4. Listen to the radio for updates and advice
5. Clear away or secure loose items in yards or on balconies such as trampolines, plastic garden furniture ot children's toys.
6. Prepare an emergency kit - this should have a torch, radio, first aid kit, fresh batteries and a list of emergency contact numbers.
In a life threatening emergency, call 000 immediately. For emergency assistance in floods and storms call the SES on 132 500.
