Tropical Cyclone Alfred is set to impact Southeast Queensland, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and potential disruptions to infrastructure. In response, all of our Southeast Queensland offices have been temporarily closed, and the Smart Strata and Archers the Strata Professionals Teams are now working remotely to continue supporting our clients. While we will do our utmost to assist, we ask for your patience as emergency services and critical support are prioritised for those in the greatest distress.

We remain committed to ensuring the well-being of all strata communities. We encourage you to reach out for assistance, whether for property concerns, emergency contacts, or reliable tradespeople for urgent repairs. You can access our Supplier Directory on the Smart Strata website for trusted service providers ready to assist during this period.

Safety is our top priority. We encourage all residents, strata managers, and body corporate committees to take proactive measures to secure properties and remain informed, you can access the Cyclone Preparation Guide for Strata Owners by MAI Strata here with safety guidelines and recommendations to help you navigate this severe weather event with caution and preparedness.

Queensland Fire Department

Due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred expected to impact Southeast Queensland, your buildings’ QFD Monitored Fire Detection and Alarm Systems (FDAS) and or sprinkler system could potentially be affected by flooding or power outage, and as such, its ability to transmit any alarm signal to QFD may be compromised.

The back-up battery for your system will potentially only last 24hrs.

Please ensure that you inform all occupants that they should contact 000 in the event of an emergency to ensure appropriate and immediate response is received.

Lift Safety Procedures During a Cyclone

To minimise safety risks and prevent damage to lift equipment, please follow these guidelines:

• Before the cyclone (less than 4 hours away): Park the lift midway up the building using the PRC key switch, out-of-service key switch, or fireman’s key switch. If the lift serves only two floors, park it on the top floor.
• DURING THE CYCLONE: DO NOT USE THE LIFT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES.
• After the cyclone has fully passed and mains power is restored: Inspect the bottom floor for water entry before resuming lift operations.
• Before using the lift: Run it from top to bottom without passengers. Shine a torch between the door sills to check for water in the lift pit.
• If any water is detected: Do not use the lift and contact your dedicated lift maintenance company immediately. If no water is present, the lift can be safely returned to normal operation.

By following these steps, you can help ensure safety and minimise potential damage.

Post-Cyclone Safety: What to Do Once the Storm Passes

Even after the worst has passed, the danger may not be over. Keep these post-cyclone safety tips in mind:

• Avoid floodwaters—they can contain hidden dangers such as debris, chemicals, or live electrical wires.
• Check your property for structural damage before re-entering and report any hazards to your body corporate or local authorities.
• Do not use lifts immediately after the storm—ensure they have been inspected for water damage before operation.
• Be mindful of fallen power lines—stay clear and report them immediately.

The Importance of Proactive Safety Measures

Cyclone Alfred serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness. Taking proactive steps today can significantly reduce risks tomorrow. Whether you are a lot owner, a committee member, or a building manager, prioritising safety is essential for protecting lives and assets.

We urge everyone to stay safe, remain informed, and act responsibly. If you require further guidance, do not hesitate to contact our team. Together, we will navigate this weather event with caution and resilience.

Article Contributed by Smart Strata and Archers the Strata Professionals

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