THE Port Stephens SES is looking for new members in time for storm season.
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The SES, State Emergency Services, is a group of volunteers who help in times of storm and flood, conduct road crash rescues and assist with many other services such as search and rescue.
"The SES is a rewarding experience, giving you new skills and an opportunity to do something worthwhile for the community," Port Stephens SES controller Alan Williams said.
"There are many roles that our members can be trained in. Some of these include storm and flood operations, road crash rescue, administration, operations and logistics."
Anyone interested in joining the SES is invited to meet current volunteers between September 11 and 13 outside Centro Plaza at Raymond Terrace.
There is also an open night at the group's Rees James Road headquarters in Raymond Terrace on September 16 at 7pm or prospective volunteers can call the duty officer on 4980 7100 for more information.
The recruitment drive comes at the same time as Storm Safe Week which runs from September 8.
It is a timely warning for residents to prepare their homes for the coming spring and summer storms.
"We are quickly approaching that time of year when storm activity will become more frequent with high intensity and short duration storm events likely," Mr Williams said.
The best ways to minimise storm damage include maintaining the yard and balcony of your home and securing or storing items that could blow around in strong winds.
It is a good time to clean gutters, downpipes and drains to prevent blockages and trim trees and branches that could potentially fall in the wind and rain.
The SES strongly suggests making a plan for your family that outlines what you would do in an emergency and preparing an emergency kit.
For more information visit ses.nsw.gov.au/volunteering.