The South Australian State Emergency Service (SASES) is reminding people to be proactive and act now to prepare for severe weather ahead of the coming winter season.

Heavy rain and hail sweeping across the state last week provided a timely reminder for all South Australians that severe winter weather is on its way.

Robert Charlton, SASES State Duty Officer says preparing for extreme weather can greatly minimise the impact on communities and individuals.

“Our climate is changing and extreme weather events such as floods and storms are increasing in frequency and severity,’’ he says.

“Nobody wants to see water running down their walls inside their house or be without power because a tree or branch has fallen through their roof.

“The SA State Emergency Service will always be available to help the community in times of emergency, but prevention is always better than cure.

“We are asking the people of South Australia to work with us to better understand what they can do before an extreme weather event strikes and contribute to building resilient communities.’’

He says developing an emergency plan with others who live in the house is an important first step.

“People should be asking themselves do they know what to do if a flood or storm warning is issued? Or where to go for safety and how to get there?

“Many of the risks can be reduced or avoided by spending a little time planning and getting your property storm ready.

“Our major emergency event in the state’s north and west coast regions earlier this year showed us how homes and communities can quickly become isolated.

“It also showed how people are willing to take unnecessary and dangerous risks by driving through floodwaters. During a flooding event, driving through flood waters is the number one cause of death.’’

The SASES advises the following, to get ready for winter:

·       Trim trees or branches that overhang buildings.

·       Check your insurance policy is current and adequate.

·       Inspect and fix any damage to your roof.

·       Check your gutters, downpipes and drains are clear.

·       Put together an emergency kit.

·       Ask your local council if your area is prone to flooding.

·       Monitor the local conditions by following emergency services or Bureau of Meteorology social media.

·       Call 132 500 if you need SASES assistance, Call Triple Zero (000) if the matter is life threatening.

·       Check the ses.sa.gov.au website for further advice on how to prepare for severe weather.

Kylie Egan from the Bureau of Meteorology says so far this year, parts of the state including Eyre Peninsula and the north, have experienced above median rainfall while central and south-eastern parts, including Adelaide and the Mount Lofty Ranges have experienced below median rainfall.

“There is a higher chance of above median rainfall for winter in South Australia,’’ she says.

“This is linked to the chance of a negative Indian Ocean Dipole developing - which can result in higher rainfall for the state.”