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Queenslanders are being reminded that simple home maintenance can play a key role in protecting properties during severe weather events.
Advice from Get Ready Queensland encourages residents to keep their homes well maintained throughout the year to improve resilience during cyclones, storms and flooding.
Basic maintenance tasks such as checking roof conditions, clearing gutters and trimming overhanging tree branches can help reduce the risk of damage when extreme weather strikes. Ensuring gutters and downpipes are free from leaves and debris allows water to drain properly and prevents overflow during heavy rainfall.
Residents are also encouraged to repair any loose fittings, rusted areas or damaged timber around their homes to strengthen structures before storm season arrives.
Insurance is another important step in preparing for disasters. Queensland is the most disaster-affected state in Australia, with communities regularly experiencing events such as cyclones, floods and bushfires. Authorities recommend reviewing home and contents insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage.
Preparing ahead of severe weather warnings can also make a significant difference. Homeowners are advised to secure outdoor furniture, toys and other loose items that could become dangerous in high winds. Vehicles should be parked in sheltered areas away from trees, waterways and powerlines.
Sandbags may also help reduce flood impacts if placed correctly around entry points such as doors and garages. Residents should also identify the safest room inside their home to shelter in during a storm, ideally away from large windows.
Checking on neighbours, particularly elderly residents, and ensuring pets and livestock are moved to safe areas are also important steps during extreme weather.
By staying prepared and maintaining homes regularly, Queenslanders can reduce risks and better protect their families and property when severe weather occurs.
CAPTION: Clearing your gutters is a simple, yet effective way to prepare your home ahead of severe weather. Photo source: Shutterstock
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