The Shadow Minister for Emergency Services Anthony Roberts MP, together with the State Emergency Service (SES) today called upon the general public to keep an eye on their own property.

Last weekend the SES responded to more than 380 call-outs for assistance across the Illawarra and New South Wales south coast, due to Friday night’s gale force winds.

SES controller Bob Kershaw said the 109 kilometres per hour winds caused trees and branches to fall on to houses, cars and other property.

”People should ensure that they check trees for loose or damaged branches to prevent further damage to property” said Mr Roberts.

"August and September are the windiest months and it is a good idea for people to get into the habit of checking trees that might be in their yard," he said.

"Any loose branches when strong winds come up, can get blown down on homes, cars, boats or electrical wires" Mr Roberts said.

Mr Roberts said “that if we take the time to check around ours and our neighbours property we could save the community and the SES a lot of work”.

Mr Roberts warned “many blackouts are caused by trees failing on wires in high winds, so please take the time and inspect”.