The Hills’ wild storm

The Hills SES logged more than 900 calls for assistance following Saturday’s wild storm.

Most related to trees down and property damage in the Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill and West Pennant Hills areas.

As well as the Rural Fire Service crews, The Hills SES was supported by NSW SES Crews from areas as far away as Yass, Bathurst and Tambar Springs. The SES is asking people who no longer need assistance to call132 500 to let them know.

Hills Shire Mayor Michele Byrne congratulated everyone involved n the clean up. “A number of our key community facilities, including Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre and others, were impacted and I understand that many staff and volunteers from these venues worked hard to get them up and running as quickly as possible.”

“A big thank you to those residents who helped to clear local roads and footpaths of debris – we truly appreciate your efforts to keep our neighbourhoods safe and tidy.

“We are so fortunate to live in a community that is quick to band together and help each other out in challenging times, and on behalf of everyone at The Hills Shire Council, I would like to thank everyone involved for their help and support.”

SES Storm advice

There are a few simple things that you can do to help
reduce the potential damage caused by severe storms.

• Maintain your yard and balcony. Secure or store items that could blow around in strong winds

• Clean your gutters, down pipes and drains regularly to prevent blockages

• Trim trees and branches that could potentially fall on your home or propertyinformation.

• Fix any damage to your roof, including broken or missing tiles

• Check your insurance policy is current and adequate

• Make a Home Emergency Plan for your family that outlines what you would do in an emergency

• Prepare an emergency kit with essential items in case you lose power or need to leave home in an emergency

• Listen to your local radio station and other media for
weather warnings

The SES Emergency Number is 132 500.