With a La Nina wet weather system on the way and storm season about to kick off, Lismore residents are being urged to prepare their homes and businesses now to limit the damage caused by storms. 

The official storm season runs from October to March but in the Northern Rivers, storms can happen at any time of the year. The NSW State Emergency Service (NSW SES) said it's important that people are always prepared for severe weather. 

NSW SES Deputy Zone Commander Mark Somers said some simple things you can do are to look around your yard and tie down furniture and things like trampolines.

“We see a lot of roof damage caused by wind and tree impacts, which often leads to water damage as water flows into homes," Mr Somers said.

"This can be prevented through some basic home maintenance such as trimming trees and ensuring roof tile/sheets are secure and you should clean gutters and downpipes.

"Check your insurance is up to date too."

Emergency kit

NSW SES also recommend putting together a Home Emergency Kit in case you become isolated or if the power goes out.

Things to include are: torches, candles and matches, a portable radio, spare batteries, a first aid kit and a water proof document holder to store important documents. 

"Don’t drive in flash flooding," Ms Somers said. "Flood water hides damage to roads and the road is often washed away. If people drive into it and we need to rescue them, it's not a good look - and people lose their lives doing it.

"It also places rescuers at risk. It only takes 15cm for the average car to float .If the water is moving fast, it will push a car pff the side of the road and you could be in trouble."

Do a little every month

The First Saturday campaign encourages residents to make your home safer on the first Saturday of every month.  

Doing a little one day each month to maintain your home ready for storm season will go a long way to keeping your home, your family and NSW SES volunteers safe. 

Who to call?

For more information related to preparing your home for storms, visit http://www.ses.nsw.gov.au 

If you are in a life threatening situation, call 000.

If it involves fallen trees, water in your home or something the SES can help with, call 132500.