The South Australian State Emergency Service is reminding people to be proactive and act now to prepare for severe weather ahead of the coming winter season.

SES State Duty Officer Robert Charlton said heavy rain and hail sweeping across the state recently provided a timely reminder for all South Australians that severe winter weather is on its way.

Mr Charlton said preparing for extreme weather could greatly minimise the impact on communities and individuals.

“Our climate is changing and extreme weather events such as floods and storms are increasing in frequency and severity,’’ he said.

“Nobody wants to see water running down their walls inside their house or be without power because a tree or branch has fallen through their roof.

“The SES will always be available to help the community in times of emergency, but prevention is always better than cure.

“We ask the people of South Australia to work with us to better understand what they can do before an extreme weather event strikes and contribute to building resilient communities.’’

Mr Charlton said developing an emergency plan with house members was an important first step.

“People should be asking themselves do they know what to do if a flood or storm warning is issued? Or where to go for safety and how to get there?’’ Mr Charlton said.

“Many of the risks can be reduced or avoided by spending a little time planning and getting your property storm ready.

“Our major emergency event in the state’s north and west coast regions earlier this year showed us how homes and communities can quickly become isolated.

“It also showed how people are willing to take unnecessary and dangerous risks by driving through floodwaters. During a flooding event, driving through flood waters is the number one cause of death.’’

Call 132 500 for SA SES assistance, Triple Zero (000) if the matter is life threatening and visit ses.sa.gov.au website for further advice on how to prepare for severe weather.