Why does the SES wear orange?
Orange is the international colour for rescue services. It is easy to recognise in most emergencies, i.e. in building collapse, in bushland, in forest and in the desert.

Is working for the SES dangerous?
The SES trains to perform many different duties, involving many skills. There may be times when dangerous situations are involved however through thorough training, using the right equipment, and the right processes the danger is eliminated.

How much does it cost to join the SES?
Joining the SES costs you only your time.
Life membership, should you choose to stay that long, costs nothing!

How old do I have to be to join the SES?
Anyone over the age of 16 can join the SES

132 500 is for members of the public who require SES assistance in a flood or storm emergency, anywhere in Queensland.

*** Flood Safety ***

What is a Flood?

A flood is retention of water in the landscape due to excess rain that occurs in low-lying areas and/or near watercourses that can lead to water overflow. Flash floods can occur when a storm moves slowly, so that a small area receives most of the rain, but the drainage and runoff characteristics on the ground can also determine the area of greatest impact. (Remember, flood damage is not usually covered by insurance.)

What can you do to prepare for floods

• Ask your council about local flood plans which detail problem areas and evacuation routes and centres;
• If your area is flood prone, consider alternatives to carpets (eg removable rugs and tiles); and
• Prepare an emergency kit (emergency phone numbers, portable radio, torch, spare batteries, first aid kit, strong plastic bags for clothing, valuables, and plastic sheets, timber strips, hammers and nails for temporary repairs).

What can you do when you hear a flood warning

• Listen to your local radio station for severe storm advice and warnings;
• Plan to move vehicles, outdoor equipment, garbage, chemicals and poisons to higher locations;
• Plan which indoor items you will raise or empty if water threatens your home (e.g. freezers and refrigerators); and
• Check your emergency kit and safeguard your pets.
  

What to do if you need to evacuate

• Pack warm clothing, essential medications, valuables, personal papers, mobile phone, photos and mementos in waterproof bags to be taken with your emergency kit;
• Raise furniture, clothing and valuables on to beds, tables and into roof spaces;
• Empty freezers and refrigerators, leaving doors open;
• Turn off power, water and gas;
• Whether you leave or stay, put sandbags in the toilet bowl and over all laundry/bathroom drain holes to prevent sewage back-flow;
• Lock your home and take recommended evacuation routes for your area; and
• Don’t drive in water of unknown depth and current.

What do you do if you stay or on your return

• Listen to your local radio station for official Advices and Warnings;
• Don’t allow children to play in, or near flood waters;
• Avoid entering floodwaters. If you must, wear solid shoes and check depth and current with a stick;
• Stay away from drains, culverts and water over knee-deep;
• Don’t use gas or electrical appliances which have been in flood water until checked for safety;
• Don’t eat food which has been in flood waters; and
• Boil tap water until supplies have been declared safe.
  

***Keeping safe while bushwalking***

Every day, hundreds of people flock to national parks and other protected areas around Queensland to enjoy the simple pleasures of a bush walk, the joy of seeing native animals in the wild, or the chance to simply relax.

If you're heading off the beaten track there are some simple steps to take before you go that will help avoid risk to you and your family.

What to do before you go bushwalking

• Plan your walk to be well within your physical capacity and level of experience
• Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return
• Organise a group of at least four people
  
• Ensure that your footwear and clothing are suitable for where you are going
• Always check weather reports before leaving home
• Be adequately prepared for a weather sudden change
• If you dont feel comfortable about the day, dont go, first insticnt is usually right

What you should wear

• Hat
• Sunscreen
• sturdy walking shoes
• light comfortable clothes jeans are not for bushwalking limit and tire you
• A compass and a map, and be sure you know how to use them
• A first-aid kit

What you should carry

• Waterproof overgear and warm, dry spare clothing
• A box of matches stored in a water tight container
• Enough food for your trip plus emergency rations
• A whistle
• A compass and a map, and be sure you know how to use them
• A first-aid kit

What to do if you get lost

• Stay where you are if it is safe
  
• If you are on walking track, find an intersection and stay visible
• Make you location as visible as possible
• Relax and conserve your energy
• Dont panic, keep calm, help will be on its way as soon as you are missed

Speak to fellow walkers if you are need a break, stop as a group never separate

Read more on Bushwalking safety at the EPA/QPWS information page

Storm Season is here!! are you ready?

Severe storms, some with devastating potential, are expected to hit QLD this summer and residents are being urged to be prepared.

The storms could include driving hail or cause flash flooding, and also have enough power to lift roofs and make missiles out of garden furniture.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), State Emergency Service (SES) would like to highlight the storm season, which officially runs from October 1 to March 31.

What is a severe storm?

There are two types of severe storms: thunderstorms and land gales. Thunderstorms can produce hail, wind gusts, flash floods, tornadoes, and, lightning which can cause death, injury and damage to property. Thunderstorms are more common and generally more dangerous than land gales. Land gales are simply gale force winds that occur over the land.

What can you do to prepare for severe storm season?

• Be aware of severe storm patterns in your area (contact your local council for advice);
• Trim trees, remove overhanging branches and clear gutters and downpipes, clear yard of loose materials and rubbish;
• Secure loose roof tiles or sheets;
• Protect sky lights with wire mesh and fit glass windows and doors with shutters or insect screens;
• Prepare an emergency kit (emergency phone numbers, portable radio, torch, spare batteries, first aid kit, strong plastic bags for clothing, valuables, and plastic sheets, timber strips, hammers and nails for temporary repairs);
• Check boats are securely moored, or protected on land; and
• Check home insurance is current and adequate (Include building debris clean up/disposal costs).
• Prepare your Family Home Emergency Plan
• Inspect and fix fences, roofs and gutters for damage or loose materials
• Seal any cracks in the foundation and exterior walls[1]
• Ensure branches near your home and powerlines are trimmed
• Keep your yard or balcony/patio free from clutter
• Make sure your roof is in good repair
• Check that you have adequate insurance cover for your home and contents
• Keep a list of emergency numbers near the telephone. For a flood and storm emergency call SES on 132 500
• Assemble an emergency kit
• Help your neighbours to prepare their homes

Read more on Storm and Flood safety on our Storm and Flood information page

MBRC (Moreton Bay Regional Council)
EMQ (Emergency Management Qld)
Queensland SES (Public)