THE Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) is urging people to tidy up around their properties before severe winter weather hits, with a few hours of home preparation meaning safer neighbourhoods in Western Australia.

State Emergency Service (SES) volunteers responded to 1056 calls for assistance between June and October last year, with the majority for roof and structural damage, fallen trees and water ingress.

Crews spent an average of 3.5 hours at properties, often for damage that could have been prevented. DFES deputy commissioner Craig Waters said too many people were complacent, leaving their homes and families vulnerable and increasing the burden on SES volunteers, who are the state’s frontline response to severe storms.

“Now is the perfect time to undertake a few simple measures around the home that could save thousands of dollars in repairs when a storm kicks off,” he said.

“Loose roof sheeting, unstable fences and even outdoor furniture can become dangerous in destructive winds. Taking a couple of hours to storm-proof your home now can protect your family and help reduce the pressure on SES volunteers.

“Cleaning gutters and downpipes of built-up leaf litter, securing trampolines, furniture and bins that can become dangerous airborne missiles in strong winds, and removing overhanging tree branches are simple measures you can take to protect your home and stay safe.”

Deputy commissioner Waters also encouraged people to stay informed by downloading the Emergency WA app and setting watch zones for their area.

“Setting watch zones is the quickest and most effective way to receive alerts and warnings about severe weather, with the ability to choose up to 10 locations including home, school and work,” he said.

Bureau of Meteorology senior meteorologist Gianni Colangelo said the high-pressure system south of the state, which had contributed to the delay of early-season cold fronts in May, had been weakening recently, marking the onset of the winter season.

“These fronts have the chance to bring severe weather and act as a timely reminder of the types of hazards we see every year; damaging to destructive winds, heavy rainfall, flash flooding, damaging surf conditions and abnormally high tides.

“Remember to check the bureau’s website and BOM weather app to stay up to date with the latest forecasts and warnings as these fronts draw near.”

Stay up to date with the latest storm warnings by visiting the Emergency WA website, calling 13 DFES, following DFES on social media and listening to local radio broadcasts.

Contact SES on 132 500 if your home is badly damaged by a storm and you cannot make it safe on your own.

Be aware that calls for assistance are prioritised to assist those most in need first and non-urgent requests should be directed to your insurance provider. Always call triple zero (000) for life-threatening emergencies.

More advice on how to prepare your home for severe weather can be found at this DFES webpage.

Learn about setting watch zones on the Emergency WA app via this DFES video.