By Phil Kite, Farm Insurance Specialist with Achmea Farm Insurance Specialist based in Ingham, North Queensland
“Cyclone season is an annual challenge for farmers and communities in northern Australia. In 2017, after tropical Cyclone Debbie (classified as a Cat 4), I had to say goodbye to my family, unsure of when I would return. Understanding that many clients needed immediate support, we drove through police checkpoints to reach the impact zone. Navigating through downed trees and power lines, we became the first visitors for many affected clients, providing essential reassurance and understanding the extent of their losses, which proved invaluable for their recovery.
This year, the Bureau of Meteorology has predicted an “average” cyclone season with about 11 tropical cyclones, four of which may make landfall. With warmer-than-average ocean temperatures increasing the chance of severe storms, preparation is crucial.
Taking proactive measures can significantly reduce the impact on your property and family, providing peace of mind. No matter how well insured you are, it is always better to prevent damage where possible, than face the challenges of rebuilding or repairing afterwards.
Risk Mitigation Strategies for Cyclone Preparedness
Here are 12 practical risk mitigation strategies that may help to prepare for the upcoming cyclone season.
- Roof Inspection
Roofs are particularly susceptible to cyclone damage. Inspect your roof for any loose tiles, rusted screws, or rusted iron, and replace them as needed. Strong winds can lift these components, creating entry points for water and causing further damage. - Trim Nearby Trees
Overhanging tree branches can cause significant damage during a cyclone. Trim trees located near buildings to prevent them from becoming hazardous. - Check Your Insurance Coverage
Ensure that your insurance policy is up-to-date and check if you need cover for cyclone damage. Once a cyclone starts to develop, it could be too late to make any additions or changes to your policy. Double-check your coverage early in the season. - Clear Gutters and Downpipes
Remove leaves, dirt, and other debris from gutters and downpipes to ensure proper water flow. This may reduce the risk of water buildup and leaks during heavy rain. - Secure Loose Items
Tidy up loose items such as sheets of iron, timber, garden tools, building materials, and furniture. Lightweight items can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. - Cyclone-rated Shutters
Consider installing cyclone-rated window shutters and metal screens. These may protect your glass windows from flying debris, minimizing the risk of broken glass during a cyclone. - Water and Fuel Supplies
Purchase additional containers to store drinking water and extra fuel supplies. Essential utilities can often be unavailable for days or even weeks after a cyclone. - Test Your Generator
Ensure your generator is in good working order and stocked with adequate fuel supplies. Generators provide power for lighting, refrigeration, and charging devices during prolonged outages. - Stock Up on Essentials
Gather essential items like flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, non-perishable food, and a battery-powered radio to stay informed. - Know How to Shut Off Utilities
Familiarise yourself with shutting off your water mains, electricity, and gas. In case of structural damage, turning off utilities can help prevent leaks, fires, and further hazards. - Plan Your Shelter or Evacuation
If you plan to stay, determine the safest area in your home for sheltering during a cyclone. If evacuation is necessary, turn off all utilities and follow community disaster preparedness plans. - Ensure Communication Plans
Select a common meeting place or single point of contact for all family members. If you have pets, have a plan for their evacuation as well.
Taking these precautions is an investment in the security and resilience of your property and the wellbeing of your family,” said Phil.
For more cyclone tips and extreme weather information, visit www.getready.qld.gov.au
For a conversation about your farm insurance needs, please contact us on 1800 724 214 or at [email protected]
Disclaimer: Insurance issued by Achmea Schadeverzekeringen N.V. (Achmea) ABN 86 158 237 702 AFSL 433984. The information in this document is general advice only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs (your personal circumstances). This means any advice may not be appropriate for your circumstances. Before using this information to decide whether to purchase the insurance policy, you will need to consider the appropriateness of any general information or advice we give you and how it relates to your specific situation to ensure the insurance cover meets your needs and the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination (TMD) available from the ‘Downloads’ section of our website achmea.com.au/downloads. For feedback and complaints, visit achmea.com.au/complaints. To view Achmea Australia’s privacy statement, visit achmea.com.au/privacy. Achmea Australia does not warrant that the information contained herein is accurate, reliable, complete or up to date, and, to the fullest extent permitted by law, disclaims all liability of Achmea Australia and its Associates for any loss or damage suffered by any person by reason of the use by that person of, or their reliance on, any information contained in this document or any error or defect in on this document, whether arising from the negligence of Achmea Australia or its Associates or otherwise.