Emergency
We've been helping Australians for 100 years
During a cyclone, severe wind gusts have the power to lift large backyard items, such as trampolines, into the air. Preparedness is your best defence.
Many Australians have experienced outdoor items becoming airborne during strong winds, posing serious risks to people and property. Despite this, many people often overlook precautions like securing loose items and preparing their homes in advance.
Before a cyclone strikes, take the time to assess your home, roof, balcony and backyard, and pack away, repair or tie down loose items that may become windborne.
Store bins, toys and lighter furniture in a safe place. Bring inside any items that could be dangerous if lifted by the wind, and store them in your home, shed or garage.
Remove loose branches and any garden debris that could become projectiles. Use a leaf blower or rake to clear up any debris surrounding your home, and place it in a secured green bin.
Secure large items like trampolines, outdoor umbrellas and barbecues to help minimise the risk of damage in severe weather.
Use tie-down straps and rope to loop around heavy objects and then anchor them to something as sturdy as possible.
Ahead of any potential high wind events, such as storms or cyclones, make it a habit to check your roof and any balconies every year for loose or missing fittings, rust, rot, UV damage and insect attack.
Inspect (or seek professional assistance to inspect) your roof cladding, fascias, gutters, window seals, skylights, whirly birds and roof-to-wall connections.
Tie down straps
Rope
Ground stakes
Hammer
Waterproof tarp
Dry bags
Collapsible outdoor furniture
Leaf blower
Rake
Garden gloves
Pop-up garden bag
Cyclone preparation may be safer with help
If you need help, call a neighbour, friend or family member to help secure or move any bulky items.
Working at heights is dangerous so ask for help if you need it
Some repairs must be carried out by certified tradespeople. Always consider calling an expert:
It helps to have a few details ready
The risk ratings displayed by this tool are based on postcode-level data only and are not based on your own home’s characteristics. They reflect an average across all properties within a postcode and are provided as general information. They are not a substitute for a property-specific risk assessment.
Risk is distributed unevenly across properties within any postcode, which means most individual properties will not have the postcode-average risk rating, but will have a risk rating that is either higher or lower than the postcode average shown. This tool should not be used to calculate, predict or estimate the sum insured applicable to any individual property nor is this tool used by NRMA Insurance to calculate your premium. NRMA Insurance accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided by this tool.
The information provided by this tool is general information only and does not constitute financial or professional advice. It does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation, or needs (“your personal circumstances”). Before making any insurance decision, you should consider your personal circumstances and the relevant Product Disclosure Statement. The Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations are available at nrma.com.au. Insurance is issued by Insurance Australia Limited ABN 11 000 016 722 AFSL 227681 trading as NRMA Insurance.