Be prepared this summer
The EPA is reminding licensees to be prepared for severe weather events this summer and to ensure they have their emergency response plans in place.
Wild weather warnings for this summer. Photo: Ben McBurney, Early Warning Network
The EPA is heeding advice from the Bureau of Meteorology and is reminding licensees to be prepared for predicted severe weather events this summer.
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a La Nina which presents an increased risk of widespread and tidal flooding, and coastal erosion. There is also a higher risk of severe thunderstorms on and inland of the Great Dividing Range.
The Rural Fire Service has advised that good rainfall and mild weather conditions have contributed to prolific grass growth along with lower stock levels following the recent drought. This increased grass load means the risk of grass fires will also increase in some parts of NSW as areas dry out over summer.
EPA’s Executive Director Operations Stephen Beaman urges licensees and all businesses to be ready to activate their Pollution Incident Response Management Plan (PIRMP).
“Run through your PIRMP and make sure your staff are aware of the expected conditions over the coming months,” Stephen said.
“Your staff need to know emergency evacuation procedures and their roles and responsibilities under the plan.
“Premises that contain sediment and erosion control dams should ensure water levels are being managed in a way that enables inflows, and that all sediment and erosion controls are maintained to ensure they are stable in high stormwater flow conditions.
“If you are the owner of a declared dam you are also reminded to review your operations and maintenance plan and emergency plan to ensure you are prepared for abnormal operating conditions and flood risks.”
Our recent blitz on building or renovation sites near waterways in greater Sydney also promoted the threat of La Nina in causing runoff from building sites.
Take all those extra empty drink bottles to a Return and Earn station; avoid busy times.
Special advice
- If you undertake high-risk activities, ensure you have proper monitoring and controls in place to minimise potential impacts.
- Keep up to date with the latest information on bushfires and for floods and storms .
- If you have questions or need assistance around environmental protection, contact the EPA at info@epa.nsw.gov.au or by phone 131 555.
Tips for everyone
- Keep the house in order and manage household waste to keep pests and odours at bay.
- Summer means more cool drinks – and more empty bottles. Remember to take your empty bottles and cans to a Return and Earn collection point. Avoid the busy times on weekends if you can.