Stay vigilant this Christmas

IN the lead up to Christmas Day, it is predicted there may be thunderstorms, wind and rain. 

These conditions can mean a greater chance of trees falling onto powerlines, causing power outages.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for possible outages:

* Ensure you have battery operated torches and radios in a place easy to access.

* Have charged battery packs available for mobile phones.

* Have some backup ice in an esky for your Christmas food and drinks.

* Make sure you can open your garage or fence manually so you can leave your home if the power goes out.

* If you have an electric water pump, stock up on bottled water.

If your power goes out, check your Outage Tracker for latest restoration times via www.outagetracker.com.au.

Report faults and emergencies online www.ausnetservices.com.au/report-fault or on 13 17 99.

If you’re in immediate danger, call 000.

For emergency services, call the SES on 13 25 00.

Never enter floodwaters and assume any fallen or damaged powerlines are live.

Please stay safe and share this information with friends and family.