Clearing gutters, removing rubbish from the yard and preparing an emergency kit could save valuable time and precious resources this winter season.
This is the advice of Serpentine Jarrahdale State Emergency Services unit who see first hand the devastation the woolly winter weather can cause in the cold months ahead.
Unit manager Martin Seaward said the crew’s roles vary from operational roles like search and rescue, storm rescue, communications and controls, urban search and rescue, as well as community engagement and administration.
“SES volunteers often assist with clearing fallen trees, rescuing trapped or injured people, sandbagging areas in danger of flooding and making temporary repairs to homes and businesses,” he said.
“Residents can minimise potential damage by trimming branches near their home, clearing their roof and gutters for damage or loose material and preparing an emergency plan including a relocation plan in case their home becomes flooded.”
Mr Seaward said the Serpentine Jarrahdale unit had 20 active members aged from young teens to retirees.
“This group of dedicated people are not paid and give up their time, often braving the cold, wet, windy and dangerous conditions to come to the aid of hundreds in need of emergency assistance,” he said.
