While summer is the time many of us focus on claiming our fun under the sun, Hawkesbury Council is keen to remind residents of the seriousness of the season.
"Each year, communities across NSW experience bush fires, home fires, floods, storms, heatwaves, power outages and other emergencies," the council stated via a media release.
"It's important to be aware of and prepared for seasonal hazards, whether you're at home, at work or away on holidays."
Council recommends residents take heed of five simple steps:
- Know your risk - think about the area you're in and the types of disasters that could affect you;
- Plan now for what you will do - speak with your family and plan for what you will do if a disaster affects your area;
- Get your home ready - prepare your home by doing general home maintenance and checking your insurance coverage;
- Be aware - find out how to prepare, what to do if there is a disaster and connect with NSW emergency services to stay informed; and
- Look out for each other - share information with your family, friends, neighbours and those who may need assistance.
On days of extreme heat - 40-plus degrees - council will extend the operating hours of Hawkesbury Centre Library, Richmond Swimming Centre and Oasis Aquatic and Leisure Centre on weekends.
On weekdays, facility hours are usually longer than weekends.
"Council has received positive feedback from this initiative since it was first activated as a way to help residents find a way to stay cool during heatwaves," the council said.
"Council facilities have evolved to become vibrant hubs that are seen as welcoming spaces that serve very important community-building roles."
For operating hours, visit council's website hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au and council's Facebook page.
Council urged residents to be mindful of their pets on hot days and to spare a thought for local wildlife. Placing out water containers in the shade can make a difference to heat-stressed wildlife.
The coming months are also expected to bring with them a storm or two, increasing the flooding risk in the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley.
"With near full dams and wetter catchments, there is a higher risk of flooding with each rain event," says council. "Check your flood risk and find out how to prepare for future floods at myfloodrisk.nsw.gov.au."
For more practical advice visit resilience.nsw.gov.au/prepare.html
