Survival guide: Should I tape my windows for a cyclone?

As Tropical Cyclone Alfred bears down on southeast Queensland we have compiled a survival guide of all the key things that you might not have considered.

If you’re still questioning the best way to get through the chaos as Tropical Cyclone Alfred bears down on South East Queensland, our cyclone survival guide has the answers.

David Henderson has been studying cyclones for more than three decades with James Cook University’s cyclone testing station in Townsville and has built a wealth of knowledge and experience researching one of nature’s most frightening phenomena.

He says patience and awareness are key factors in getting through the worst of cyclones.

“Look at the emergency services preparation lists online, go through your checklists if it’s not too late and get yourself as prepared as you can,” he says.

“And be patient. Once you’re in the middle of this, it will take many, many hours.

“It will be a very long, wet and windy event.”

Where should I shelter?

Flying debris is a real issue, and that’s why emergency services say to shelter away from your window. Shelter in your smallest room, or in your corridors with some mattresses and blankets around you.

Is the bathroom really the safest room in the house?

The safest place to be in cyclones is away from windows and bathrooms are typically built in the middle of homes. Plumbing and pipes running through bathroom walls can also add structural integrity, but avoid sheltering in bathrooms with large windows where you could be hit by flying debris.

Jen Masters keeping an eye on the weather from her Main Beach unit.. Picture Glenn Hampson

Will my roof blow off?

Changes to building codes in the aftermath of Cyclone Tracy in 1974 mean most homes built after 1980 have roofs built to withstand category 3 systems. Older homes, particularly with timber or iron roof tops, would be more at risk. However, even modern roof tile homes can face devastating damage, particularly if a window is smashed and wind places pressure on the roof from above and below.

Can I go outside when I’m in the eye of the cyclone?

The eye of a cyclone or hurricane is typically a period of calm weather when winds and rain cease. However, while you may be safe from flying projectiles for a short time, it is hard to predict when the wild weather will resume. It’s also possible conditions in the eye of a cyclone will feature hazards such as fallen power lines. Experts advise to never go outside in the eye of a cyclone and to wait until the weather system has passed entirely.

I have no garage, do I just park away from trees?

Avoid trees or low-lying areas prone to flooding. If possible, park closely to the side of your house to at least provide shelter from one direction.

Should I tape up my windows?

Taping windows will not make them stronger or more likely to withstand impacts from flying debris. But a close checkerboard pattern of tape across your windows (rather than a big X) will help keep any broken glass pieces together and less likely to shatter all over the floor inside your home. If you have extra time and resources, secure plastic sheeting or even mattresses against the inside of the windows.

Should I leave my windows or sliding doors slightly ajar?

This advice is not just an old wives tale and has theoretical merit when a window from the side facing the prevailing wind is smashed. Leaving a window on the opposite side of the home open allows that wind to escape. However, it is almost impossible to predict this in advance as winds often change during a cyclone and Dr Henderson said it was far safer to shut all doors and windows securely and avoid moving around opening and closing windows during the height of the cyclone.

Surf contidtions at Coolangatta as the community braces for heavy rain ahead of Cyclone Alfred’s arrival this week. Picture: Glenn Campbell

What can I use pool noodles for?

If you have a backyard pool and those pool noodles, they can be used to wedge under doors to stop floodwater from coming into your home.

What else can I use other than sandbags to protect my home from flooding?

Bags of soil, fertiliser, or other garden supplies can be substituted for sand bags, particularly 50kg varieties. The uniform shape and flat profile makes them easy to stack tightly together and provide protection from rising floodwaters.

Is it safe to drink tap water during a storm surge?

Different local government areas use different water treatment and filtration systems. Visit the online disaster dashboard of the local council in your area.

Will my toilet still flush if we lose power?

Many toilets still flush and refill without power unless they are located below sewer lines. Toilets using tank water can often refill and flush through simple gravity, while manually filling the toilet tank with water will also allow it to flush.

How do I charge my phone without power?

Invest in a portable charging device - some operate on batteries. USB ports in laptops can be used, but that will be of little benefit once a laptop battery goes flat. Car chargers are useful, but ensure your car’s engine is turned on so charging your phone does not drain the car battery.

Will my oven still work in a blackout?

Electric ovens will not work without power, but some gas stoves will still function. Some have safety switches rendering them inoperable during a power outage and others require electricity for an ignition spark, but in some cases, lighting the stove carefully with matches is possible. If you have a portable barbecue, use that for cooking in the event of power outages.