In addition from bushfires, our local area is at risk from other emergencies. Find out more about heatwaves, storms and floods below.
Heatwaves have become a serious public health issue, causing more deaths in Australia in the past 200 years, than any other natural hazard. It is important to be aware of the effects of heat on the body and how to help yourself stay healthy and feeling well during periods of extreme heat.
Heatwave strategies
- Dress in light clothing and seek air-conditioning. If you don’t have air-conditioning at home, visit public places which are cool like libraries and shopping centers.
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid caffeine, energy or alcoholic drinks.
- Eat smaller meals more often and cold meals such as salads. Make sure food that needs refrigeration is properly stored.
- Stay out of the sun and limit outdoor activity to morning or evening hours. If you must go out in the heat of the day, be SunSmart and take plenty of water with you.
- Look after your pets. Ensure your pets have adequate water and shade during the hottest hours of the day.
Dangerous storms are the most common natural hazard in Australia and can cause significant damage to property and pose a threat to people, animals and the environment.
The impact of storms can be reduced by planning and preparation. Some of the things you can do to keep your family and property safe include:
- trimming branches around the home to prevent them falling on roofs or cars
- hiring a contractor to clear trees from power lines
- clearing gutters and downpipes of leaves and blockages
- checking the roof for cracked ridge capping, loose tiles or loose nails
- preparing an emergency kit with a portable battery operated radio, torch, spare batteries and a first aid kit.
More information about what to do before, during and after a storm.
Both flash and riverine flooding is a common occurrence in City of Swan.
Localised flash flooding may occur after heavy rain. They happen very quickly from fast flowing water and can be very dangerous. Flash floods are generally short and sharp and water level usually quickly recede.
Prolonged wet weather may cause rivers and creeks raise above their banks, creating widespread substantial riverine floods. Riverine floods usually last for days and can case significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
All flooding is dangerous. Water can be deep, fast flowing with strong currents and have sharp objects that can injure or trap you. It is Australia’s second-deadliest natural hazard.
Preparation
- follow alerts and warning at www.emergency.wa.gov.au
- watch for changes in water levels so you are ready if you need to evacuate.
- pack a relocation kit together with your emergency kit.
- relocate equipment and livestock so they do not get caught in floodwaters.
- expect power outage
- prepare pet food or stockfeed in case you cannot return home for a few days.
Do not
- walk, swim, or play in floodwaters.
- go near storm drains and pipes, ditches and ravines, as they are dangerous.
- swim or kayak.
- Drive through flood waters, especially if it is streaming
Read more information about what to do before, during and after a flood.