The orange SES army has been out in force helping residents across the Toowoomba Region to clean-up and make their homes safe following the weekend's severe storms which impacted the region.
Toowoomba Region Mayor and Chair of the Local Disaster Management Group Geoff McDonald said residents should reach out for assistance if required.
"It was heartening to be out on the ground in Clifton and other areas on Sunday and see first-hand the orange SES army out in force helping residents to recover and make their homes safe following the huge hailstorm on Saturday afternoon.
"There were 107 SES call-outs as of 7pm on Sunday evening with clean-up efforts to continue this week. I encourage any resident needing assistance to call the SES on 132 500," Mayor McDonald said.
"Council crews are currently out on the ground cleaning up roadsides and public spaces while Ergon crews are working to restore power. I urge homeowners to visit Council's Disaster Dashboard for the latest information.
"The storms were also a timely reminder that residents should prepare their properties for storm season."
Mayor McDonald called on residents 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; and
- pack an emergency kit to set aside that includes torches, spare batteries, a battery-operated radio, canned food, UHT milk and bottled water.
"We all have a role to play in ensuring that we are prepared for whatever nature throws at us," Mayor McDonald said.
"People need to be aware of how quickly the situation can change when a storm hits."
There are free resources which residents can access to ensure they are prepared for extreme weather, including Council's Disaster Dashboard and the Queensland Government's Get Ready website.
To find out how you can prepare your home, family, and community please visit: www.getready.qld.gov.au
In a life-threatening emergency call 000 (triple zero) and for emergency flood or storm assistance, call the State Emergency Service on 132 500.
