‘Get Ready Month’ – time to prepare for extreme weather

October is ‘Get Ready Month’ and Fraser Coast residents are being urged to prepare for extreme weather and have a plan to keep their families, homes and pets safe.

Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair George Seymour said bushfires were already occurring, while severe storms could bring flash flooding, high winds and potentially damaging hail.

“We’re encouraging everyone to think about the big picture and what they would do in the event of a natural disaster or severe weather,” he said.

“It’s crucial to be prepared. Have an emergency plan, pack an emergency kit, clean up your yard, check your insurance to make sure you’re covered, and sign up for notifications through Council’s Disaster Dashboard.”

As part of ‘Get Ready Month’, residents are invited to attend two special Food n Groove events:

• Seafront Oval, Hervey Bay, Friday 18 October, 4pm – 9pm
• Brolga Theatre Riverstage, Maryborough, Friday 25 October, 4pm – 9pm

“These events are always a fun and informative way to engage the community,” Cr Seymour said.

“Local emergency and support services will be on hand with vehicle displays, equipment and tips to help everyone get prepared – all in a lively atmosphere with food and entertainment for the whole family.”

Cr Seymour stressed the importance of tidying up properties ahead of the storm season.

“Now is the time to clear your gutters, trim overhanging branches, and secure or get rid of loose items that could become hazardous in high winds,” he said.

“Make sure to check your roof regularly and secure anything in your yard or on your balcony, from trampolines to outdoor furniture.”

Residents can dispose of certain items for free at Council waste facilities including:

• Scrap metal (eg old play equipment);
• Green waste (eg trees and branches);
• Untreated timber
• Reusable items (eg outdoor furniture).

Cr Seymour also emphasised the need for an emergency kit, with enough supplies for several days, including for pets.

“Ensure you have an emergency plan that covers evacuation, caring for pets or livestock, and any medical needs in your household,” he said.

“It’s essential that everyone in your home knows what to do when a severe weather warning is issued. A well-prepared household is a safe household.”

Cr Seymour said residents should also ensure their home, contents, and vehicle insurance is up to date and provides suitable coverage, and that they know how to stay informed during disaster season.

“Council’s Disaster Dashboard – https://disaster.frasercoast.qld.gov.au – is your go-to resource for everything from road closures to weather warnings, and you can even sign up for email and SMS notifications,” he said.

For more information on what items can be disposed of for free at Council waste facilities and how to prepare for extreme weather, visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/storm-season-clean-up

The Get Ready Food n Groove events are supported by the Queensland Government’s Get Ready Queensland program. For more information, visit https://www.getready.qld.gov.au/