Are You Storm and Heat Prepared?

Toowoomba Regional Council is well prepared to respond, if and when required, to any situation across the region during the summer storm season.

TRC Mayor Paul Antonio is encouraging people right across the region to take simple precautions to get ready for any storms that pass our way and the likelihood of extreme summer heat.

The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast very hot conditions for parts of southern Queensland in the coming days and TRC reminds us all to take the necessary precautions.

“Young children, the elderly and people with health problems were most vulnerable, but heat stress could affect anyone. Residents should drink plenty of water (avoid alcohol and caffeine), stay out of direct sunlight and check on neighbours." Mayor Antonio said.

The Darling Downs also is highly likely to experience thunder, lightning and storms during the peak storm season. The annual rumbling was a timely reminder about the serious side to living in the region.

Council has been working to make the region a much more resilient Region after the tragic circumstances of the floods in 2011 is better prepared than ever for this storm season, but they can't do it alone, they need residents to be ready as well.

If required, the Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) would coordinate with relevant emergency services and monitor information and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology.

Councils top priority is to ensure all residents are safe and well informed about the potential dangers from storms, such as possible flood waters and high winds. It is better to err on the side of caution.

Again a warning is going out to everyone take care when it comes to flood water - the message is simple: "If it's flooded, forget it".

Motorists are being asked to observe any warning signs and to drive to the conditions.  Remember to drive with your headlights ON.

Residents are also reminded to:

• check and clean their roof, gutters and downpipes;
• identify loose objects in their yard such as outdoor furniture and toys that will have to be put away or secured if a storm approaches;
• pack an emergency kit to set aside that includes torches, spare batteries, an emergency radio, canned food, UHT milk, bottled water and provisions for your pets

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