Government thanks SES volunteers for job well done

Chief Minister, Katy Gallagher and Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Simon Corbell, have joined together to thank the dedicated ACT State Emergency Services (ACTSES) members who have worked to help Canberrans in need following recent storm activity.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the 120 ACTSESvolunteers who have worked over the past 24 hours to quickly and professionally fix problems that have arisen due to storms that rolled through the ACT on Tuesday and Wednesday," Ms Gallagher said.

"Despite ongoing wet and stormy weather, these volunteers have worked around the clock to help others in need and to ensure that they are not left in vulnerable situations with damage to their homes or businesses."

Since storms hit the ACT late on Tuesday afternoon, the ACTSES received 217 calls for help from Canberrans with problems ranging from minor roof damage and minor flooding to trees which had fallen onto roadways and public paths.

Mr Corbell also thanked the volunteers and said that ACTSES volunteers do their work in very trying conditions.

"Our valued ACTSES workers are always happy to help people and often work through challenging and sometimes dangerous conditions without a second thought," Mr Corbell said.

"It is also very commendable that crews will take time out from their families and careers to help others in need.

"This is also a crucial opportunity to remind Canberrans to ensure that their homes and businesses are storm safe, by clearing gutters, trimming trees and branches around the property, have loose objects fixed and have an emergency kit ready."

More information about what you and your family can do to be storm safe is available online at http://www.esa.act.gov.au/.

Those who need emergency assistance with storm damage can contact the ACTSES on 132 500.