As winter gets underway, the South Australian State Emergency Service (SES) has launched a storm preparedness campaign in partnership with NRMA Insurance.

The aim is to raise awareness of severe weather risks and help South Australians get prepared. 

It comes as new research from the insurer reveals the majority of South Australians are concerned about the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather, yet more than one in three do not feel prepared to respond. 

Over the past three years SES volunteers have responded to more than 6,600 Requests for Assistance from the public during the winter months.

According to NRMA Insurance data, last winter was the worst for wild weather damage in SA in the past six years, with 40 per cent of all home claims caused by extreme weather.

Despite the increased frequency and severity of extreme weather events, the organisation’s research shows 31% of South Australians do not know what steps to take to prepare.

Chris Beattie, Chief Officer of the SES says the organisation is committed to building resilient communities through ongoing engagement and education.

“This will be the largest, targeted public education campaign we have launched and we’re hopeful that, in combination with our well-prepped volunteers, it will help to minimise the impacts of severe weather across our communities as we come into winter.

“We encourage people to visit the SES website to undertake some simple, proactive steps to help minimise potential damage to their homes and properties.

“We are also very aware of the record-breaking dry spell South Australia and especially Adelaide, has experienced over the past three months.

“Prolonged dry spells can add to the stress on trees, increasing the likelihood of dropped branches and when followed by a sudden increase in rain, along with strong winds, will increase the instability of soil, increasing the likelihood of further stress on trees.’’

Emergency Services Minister Dan Cregan says the new campaign will highlight the need for South Australians to prepare themselves this winter and do their bit for volunteers.

“SES volunteers work tirelessly to respond to calls for help across the state, often in the most challenging of weather conditions.

“This campaign shows how communities can be better prepared for storms and floods, allowing volunteers to prioritise where they are needed most.”

To prepare for severe weather and storms the SES advises:

• Trimming any overhead branches around your property.
• Cleaning your gutters and downpipes of leaves and debris.
• Checking and clearing drains on your property.
• Tying down loose outdoor furniture.
• Checking adequacy of insurance coverage.

To learn more about how to prepare for storms visit the SES website.