Storm Preparation

When a storm strikes, rest assured, we are here

Preparing for a storm

Storms are usually generated by three main elements: moist air, an unstable atmosphere, and weather events like a front, trough or area of low pressure.

Resulting in a combination of fierce winds, heavy rain, wild lightning, ferocious thunder and sometimes hail, severe storms can cause devastating damage.

That’s why it’s vital you keep prepared to help ensure the safety of you, your family and your employees.

Here are some practical tips to help you reduce your risk for the storm season ahead. And remember if you need any assistance – Austbrokers Countrywide is here.

Before a storm

If you haven’t already, prepare an emergency kit and keep it handy (this can include things like first aid supplies, torch, battery operated radio, important documents and medicines
Subscribe to local alerts and warning systems to allow you to stay up-to-date with expert information and advice
Regularly check the condition of your property’s roof and arrange for the repair of any loose tiles, eaves or roof screws. Clear gutters and rubbish around your property
Fit windows with shutters or metal screens
Identify where and how to turn off the mains supply for water, power and gas
Regularly check the condition of your property’s roof and arrange the repair of any loose tiles, eaves or roof screws
Ensure your vehicle is in good working order
Make sure the property has clear and easy access for emergency services
Develop an evacuation plan and confirm the roles and responsibilities with your employees
Review your contents insurance regularly to ensure new purchases are covered and your sum insured is adequate.

At the onset of a severe storm

Please only take action if it’s safe to do so. If you need any further guidance, please contact us. For emergencies, please call 000.

Use to local alerts and warning systems to stay up to date with expert information and advice
If a warning is issued for your area, ensure your mobile battery is full and you have a full tank of fuel
Remember the 30/30 lightning safety rule: go indoors if you hear thunder 30 seconds or less after seeing lightning – this means the lightening is close. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder
If safe to do so, move your vehicle undercover and secure any outdoor furniture and other loose items
Gather everyone safely indoors, including any pets
Close outside doors, window blinds, shades and curtains
Once inside, stay away from doors, windows and exterior walls
Turn off all electricity, gas and water, and unplug all appliances and computers

Useful links and contacts

PRECAUTIONARY TIP

If you haven’t already, prepare an emergency kit and keep it handy (this can include things like first aid supplies, torch, battery operated radio, important documents and medicines).

During a severe storm

Please only take action if it’s safe to do so. For emergencies, please call 000.

Listen to your battery operated radio for updates and remain indoors until you’ve been told by emergency services to leave
If an official evacuation order is issued then you must leave immediately and seek shelter at an evacuation centre designated by authorities.

Emergency contacts

In an emergency call 000
State Emergency Services (SES) information

Weather information

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.

If you’ve been affected by a bushfire, Austbrokers Countrywide is here

Important: please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.

We understand this is a stressful time for you, your family and your business, so we’ll do everything we can to make it easier for you.

We’ve listed important information below on how to lodge a claim, precautions you should take, and tips to help with a smooth claim process.

Precautions to take after a storm

Importantly, the safety of you, your loved ones and employees comes first. Please contact us if you need any further guidance. For emergencies, please call 000.

Use local alerts and warning systems to get expert information and advice
Turn off all electrical items at the main switches and unplug
Do not walk through flowing water
Look for hazards such as broken/leaking gas lines, damaged sewage systems, flooded electrical circuits, submerged appliances and structural damage. Please alert a professional to inspect any hazard.

How to make a claim

Our Claims Service Team on is here for you at any time, any day of the week.
During office hours please call 03 9835 1320. Click here for our after hours contacts

Tips for lodgement

Tell us if there’s an immediate danger such as emergency requirements, possible roof collapse, unable to return to the property for a period of time
If your property or vehicle is not completely damaged, take precautions where possible to secure them
If your vehicle is damaged, have its approximate location ready to tell our operator
Where possible take photographs of any damage
Do not dispose of any damaged parts of your property, contents or vehicle until we have agreed
Do not wash, clean or remove debris from any damaged area without our consent – unless you need to do this to prevent further damage or for sanitation
Do not carry out or authorise any repairs without our consent – unless you need to for emergency or safety reasons.

Emergency information and contacts

In an emergency call 000
State Emergency Services (SES) information

Remember that Austbrokers Countrywide is here for you – before, during and after a storm. If you need assistance or any further guidance, please contact us.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Please do not return to your property or vehicle until emergency services have confirmed you can.

HOW TO MAKE A CLIAM

Our Claims Service Team on is here for you at any time, any day of the week.
During office hours please call 03 9835 1320. Click here for our after hours contacts