‘Prepare with a repair’: SES advice ahead of Far North severe weather

The SES is advising Far North residents, homeowners and absentee landlords to organise property maintenance ahead of more severe weather moving in across the region.

As Cairns enjoyed a few hours break from the wet season, the State Emergency Service urged homeowners to undertake any basic property repairs now in order to be ready for when the serve weather returns.

While much of the landscape from Cairns to Cape York has received a thorough drenching over the past few days, the occasional break in the weather is prime time to sling on a toolbelt and carefully check out what needs to be done to keep your home storm and flood safe.

According to SES Far North Region Director Wayne Coutts, Saturday’s respite from the heavy rains which soaked the city earlier in the week should be used to clean out clogged gutters, check if nearby building works could send a water course through your yard and repair that leaky roof which could easily cause ceiling damage – and to call in the experts if need be,

The State Emergency Service said that this brief respite from heavy rain is a good time to check on needed property repairs before more severe weather arrives on the Far North. File Picture: Brendan Radke

Mr Coutts took time out from a conference for SES trainers to remind residents that attending to those pesky jobs now will save time and money in the long run.

Looking up the clear sky, Mr Coutts said sorting out any home maintenance now is a good idea, as is organising any specialist tradespeople needed.

“We have had a bit of rain come through, it’s good to get some maintenance done now,” he said.

“We also call on absentee landlords to listen to their renters about these kinds of repair issues.

“A little bit of money now will lots of money later on.”

Mr Coutts said the SES also appreciated how helpful long-time Far North residents have been to newcomers to the region.

“It’s good when we see people avoiding being complacent,” he said.

“We want everyone to stay safe and well.”

Originally published as ‘Prepare with a repair’: SES advice ahead of Far North severe weather