Fortunately, severe storms typically come with a warning, giving us time to plan ahead so we can protect our family, our homes and our vehicles.

To help you stay proactive, we’ve put together a list of quick tips you can use to ensure you’re prepared for any dangerous storms that may come your way.

7 ways to protect your home and vehicle from an oncoming storm

Of course, your top priority during a storm is always the safety of yourself and your family. However, it’s still important to look after your home and vehicles as much as possible as well, as severe weather has the potential to lead to costly destruction of property.

So here are some things you can do to help protect your vehicle and home:

1. Stay up to date with the latest forecast.

While we can see them coming on the radar, storms are still unpredictable. It’s best to stay updated to help maximise your preparation time. The weather forecast will keep you posted on a storm’s movement and strength, and news reports will also let you know about any flood-prone roads or other areas to avoid, as well as if it’s necessary to evacuate.

Remember: keeping updated with the latest information can help save lives in hazardous weather conditions.

2. Store or secure any outdoor items or equipment that could become a projectile.

Store all gardening tools, outdoor furniture, sports equipment, pot plants and so on, indoors to ensure that powerful winds don’t turn these otherwise harmless objects into dangerous flying projectiles that could cause considerable damage to glass windows, doors and car windscreens.

3. Trim or cut down hazardous trees and branches around your home.

During a severe storm, tree branches can snap, and entire trees can become uprooted. Regular trimming could help to limit falling branches so they don’t end up potentially causing damage to your home, vehicles, or any members of your family.

4. Check around your home for any needed repairs.

The best way to protect your home and everyone inside is to ensure that all parts of it are in good condition. Check for cracks, loose panels, broken windows, damaged roof tiles, etc. It’s also a good idea to clean your gutters regularly and check for leaks anywhere that water might get in.

At O'Brien^®, we have a team of local experts who can provide glazing, electrical, plumbing and roofing services to address any issues your home may have before the next big storm. Visit our location pages to see what O'Brien^® services are in your area.

5. Park your car in a safe spot.

If you don’t have a garage, look for areas with temporary covered parking or make sure that wherever you park, your vehicle won’t get caught in the event of a flood such as a parking place on a road that is up a hill

As an added measure, you can also cover your windscreen with thick blankets, in an effort to help protect your car in a pinch.

6. Remove any non-essential items and secure loose objects around your vehicle.

Detach any magnetic signs, removable aftermarket add-ons such as flags and other exterior car accessories when preparing for a storm. This is to ensure these items don’t become fast-moving objects in strong winds.

7. Don’t forget your routine car maintenance.

In the event of a severe storm, you may need to evacuate, meaning you’ll need to ensure that your car is ready to get you and your family to safety.

Regularly check your tyres, your oil and your battery, as well as your windscreen for chips and cracks. When you know there’s a storm coming, make sure your fuel tank is full and ready to go.

If you do need windscreen repairs, you can rely on your local experts at O'Brien^® to repair or replace your broken glass and get you back on the road fast.

While severe storms can cause stress and discomfort, a bit of forward planning and preparation can help you to protect your home, your vehicles, and most importantly – the lives of you and your loved ones.

Take your storm safety to the next level with O'Brien^®

At O'Brien^®, we are always ready to deliver vehicle glass, glazing, electrical and plumbing services to your home or business.

Contact us today and we can help you prepare and protect your home and vehicle against severe weather and storms this summer.

For more information about our services, call us on 1800 059 829 , or send us a message to speak with one of our friendly staff.

The post 7 Safety Tips to Help Protect Your Home and Vehicle from an Approaching Storm appeared first on O'Brien.

After a busy year of work, school and so much more, with the summer break underway for many, it’s always wonderful to escape the everyday and explore your own backyard.

‘Cos nothing beats a great Aussie road trip!

There’s just one problem… “ARE WE THERE YET?!”

How do you keep the kids from tearing each other’s hair out in the back seat on those long drives to your next stop? Well, we’ve got some great screen-free ideas that just might help.

Put the devices away and let the kids play

We all know the drill.

You’ve got your eyes on the road, the wind in your hair and the world at your feet. Then a small voice cuts through the serenity… “I’m bored?” Ah, the dreaded call of the restless child!

Unfortunately, the back seat crew usually aren’t as impressed with the scenery as you are, and the iPad’s nearly out of juice. Fortunately, we’ve put together a list of family-friendly car games that will keep the kids entertained for hours… or at least until the next bathroom break.

5 games you can play in the car with your kids

1. I Spy

A road trip classic! Plus, if you’ve got younger kids who haven’t learnt to spell yet, it’s easy to switch the game up from letters to colours and shapes.

For example, say “I spy with my little eye, something round and red” for a stop sign. Just remember, I Spy works best on roads with interesting scenery. If you’re stuck on the freeway, maybe try another game.

2. Spot-o!

Each player takes turns choosing a colour, then everyone looks out for a car of the same colour. The first player to say ‘Spot-o!” and point to the coloured car gets the point for that car. After the agreed-upon time limit, the player with the most points wins the round.

To keep it interesting, choose an uncommon colour. There are plenty of white cars on the road, and the players tally could get too high to keep count. Try yellow, or green, or even purple!

3. Name the Celebrity!

This one is great for older kids. One player starts by saying a celebrity’s name. The next player must then think of a celebrity whose first name begins with the same letter as the preceding celebrity’s last name.

For example, a player might say, Dwayne Johnson, meaning the next player has to think of a celebrity whose first name begins with J, like Jennifer Aniston. If a celebrity’s first and last name begin with the same letter (e.g. Kim Kardashian), you then reverse the order of who goes next.

To make it more fun, add movie and cartoon characters into the mix as well.

4. Movie Buff

This game is about connecting actors with the movies they have starred in. One player starts by saying the name of an actor or actress. Then, the next player has to name a movie they starred in. The following player must then state another actor/actress from that movie. And so on.

For example, the first player may say Chris Hemsworth. The next player can then say ‘The Avengers’. The next player must then name another actor/actress from that movie, like Robert Downey Jr.

5. Alphabet Categories

Start with a category like food, bands, cars, etc. You can try a broad topic or get as specific as you like, depending on the age of your kids.

To start, the first player will name something within the category starting with A, then the next player will do the same using the letter B, and so on. For example, if the category is fruit you could start with Apple, then Banana, then Carrot and so on.

Keep the family entertained and safe

While playing games with the kids on a long drive is great, it’s important to stay focused on the road and minimise any distractions. Safety should be everyone’s top priority.

It’s also a good idea to check your windscreen and windows for cracks or chips before you leave. If you do find anything, give your local O'Brien^® AutoGlass team a call so we can get your glass repaired and get you on your way.

You can find your nearest O'Brien^® AutoGlass branch here.

Have a safe journey with O'Brien^®

At O'Brien^®, we’re here to make sure you have a safe and memorable family road trip this Summer. With over 95 years of experience, our expertise and quality service make us Australia’s leading vehicle glass repair and replacement company.

We understand our clients more than anyone else. Plus, if you ever find yourself in a regional town needing urgent vehicle glass repairs, the O'Brien^® team are just a phone call away.

For more information, contact us on 1800 059 829 or explore our website.

The post How To Keep The Kids Entertained On Your Next Road Trip appeared first on O'Brien.

With travel constraints lifted, leisure isn’t about couch-sitting anymore. Everyone’s looking to hit the road again and explore. You’ve probably missed the feeling of the open road ahead, the wind in your hair and the golden days outdoors. That’s why it’s high time to reconnect with nature and support the local communities too.

So, buckle up. We’re going on a road trip! While the whole state of NSW has so much to offer, here are our top 6 picks to put on your destination list over the next few months.

Let’s start with your own roadmap to freedom

How long has it been since you’ve planned an itinerary? It’s probably been a while, so let’s get reacquainted with the basics.

Aside from packing extra clothes, a first-aid kit and preparing your favourite road trip music (check out our O'Brien^® Roadtrip playlist on Spotify!), you also need to think about your car. Remember – it’s important to have a safe and reliable vehicle, especially if you’re heading out on a long drive.

Don’t forget to ensure you’ve had your car serviced recently to avoid any problems down the track. Also, check your front windscreen, side windows and side mirrors for any chips or cracks – you don’t want to set off, hit a bump and have a cracked windscreen ruin your trip. If your windscreen is chipped or cracked you can contact us to have it repaired before you leave. Or, if it happens during your road trip you might find one of our many nationwide branches along the way.

All set? Ok, now you just need to choose your destination!

New South Wales is full of great regional places to visit – so, to help you get started, we’ve compiled some of the travel gems the state has to offer.

6 Post-Lockdown Road Trip Destinations in New South Wales

Mudgee

The sophisticated country life in Mudgee makes it a great escape destination. Cruising through this town will give you an eclectic mix of heritage buildings, modern cafes and countless picturesque scenery!

For those with equally sophisticated palates, you can also find a feast at many local places such as High Valley Cheese Co, the Farmhouse at Blue Wren Farm and The Zin House Restaurant. Of course, as a renowned wine-producing town, Mudgee offers visitors a list of boutique local wineries to sip and swirl their latest drop. And, no trip is complete without a stop at the family-owned Mudgee Brewing Company. Only 3 hours from Sydney, Mudgee is a definite must-see for everyone.

Lightning Ridge

For a bit more of an ambitious road trip, Lightning Ridge is around an eight hour’s drive from Sydney, bordering the south of Queensland. As one of the most interesting places to visit in Australia, you’ll find eccentric characters such as Stanley the Emu ornamenting the not so typical outback.

Lightning Ridge is also home to the iconic Black Opal. You can set your sights on mining for gems or try your hand at fossicking! The roads in this town are paved and while the way to the mines is moonlike in appearance, you can still drive through easily. It’s essential, however, that you’re using a vehicle suitable for long drives and rougher roads.

Batemans Bay

Nestled on the far south coast of NSW, Bateman’s Bay is just four hours from Sydney and 2 hours from Canberra. The coastal activities against a picturesque backdrop make Batemans Bay definitely trip worthy. You can also take a detour through the Royal National Park or go via the coastal city of Wollongong for a bite of fresh seafood while looking out at the lighthouse and local beaches. For the cyclists amongst us, you can enjoy the flatways leading to Birdland Animal Park and scenic waterfront picnic areas.

Bathurst

If you haven’t been to Bathurst, make sure to put it on your list. The total drive time from Sydney is just under 3 hours and there are lots to see along the way and of course when you arrive. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, make sure you still have the energy to drive through the iconic Mount Panorama Motor Racing Circuit. Here, you can experience the closest you can get to a professional racing event – albeit with speed limits.

Dubbo

Dubbo is home to the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo. It’s a place where you can enjoy a family adventure while getting close to hundreds of beautiful, rare and endangered animals. Or, if you’ve already had your fill of driving, learn more about the local history and culture at the Heritage in Dubbo and Western Plains Cultural Centre.

Once the day starts to set, why not head to somewhere unique for dinner. Church Bar, transformed from an old church schoolhouse, offers an extensive woodfire pizza menu that will suit every taste.

Kiama

Soak in a showcase of breathtaking seaside views while driving across the picturesque Sea Cliff Bridge toward Kiama. This laidback vacation destination is great for families looking to relax on the beach and indulge in its local food spots.

Thrill-seekers can set their sights on the world-famous Kiama Blowhole and surf the magnificent waves that the local beaches have to offer. Kiama is ideal if you want a short road trip with lots to see and do.

How to hit the NSW roads with no worries

These are just a few of the many regional towns to see if you’re feeling tentative about venturing overseas just yet.

Did any of these inspire you to set out? Are there any other regional NSW destinations you’d love to see? We’d love to hear yours!

Just don’t forget that, since Australia’s landscape is notoriously harsh and unpredictable, our friendly reminder is to always check your windscreen, car windows and side mirrors for any damage. With such beauty to see, a clear windscreen and windows is a must of course!

Nevertheless, if you find yourself in need of windscreen services, don’t worry. No matter where you are in Australia, you can contact us and we are likely to have a branch or technician near you to help. That way, you’ll be back on the road in no time.

Travel safe with the experts at O'Brien^®

With over 95 years of experience, our expertise in quality service makes us Australia’s leading vehicle glass repair and replacement company.

We understand our clients more than anyone else. So, feel free to start your road trip with a visit to a nearby O'Brien^® branch for speedy and professional vehicle glass services.

For more information about our services, call us on 1800 059 829 or visit our website.

The post 6 Regional NSW Road Trip Destinations to Explore Post-Lockdown appeared first on O'Brien.

Just in time for summer, road trips are becoming the go-to activity as they offer an easy and accessible way to rediscover the outdoors and explore. But before you pack your bags and leave your home, just make sure that your car is as up for the adventure as you are. Here are a few tips on how to prepare your car for a road trip.

Prepping for a stress-free summer drive

While the iconic Australian summer sun is lovely to bask in and enjoy, the temperatures can be just as destructive to vehicles as the winter.

Extreme heat is known to cause:

• Engine overheating
• Broken air conditioning
• Low tire pressure
• Fuel and oil leaks
• Weak battery charge
• Expanded windshield and glass cracks
• Brake issues

However, this shouldn’t hold you back from your summer road trip. You just need to take the right precautions beforehand.

So, before heading to the highway, you can start by doing a routine car check-up. To help, we’ve compiled a simple list of ways to help prepare your car before you embark on your journey this summer, so you can minimise your chances of finding yourself frustrated, inconvenienced or even stranded.

5 car safety checks to make before a road trip

1. Check your battery

Imagine driving across Australia and your battery just dies. To make matters worse, the next town may be kilometres away. To avoid this scenario, it’s a smart idea to check your car battery before you set out. Are your headlights dimmer than before? Does your engine start but die immediately? Is your battery over 3-4 years old? Can you hear a low cranking when you start the car? If any of these are the case, then it may be time for a replacement. Get a professional mechanic to help you out with this.

2. Test the Air Con

When it’s hot, we like to be cool. Windows down with the wind in your hair is part of the road trip fun. However, the sweltering summer heat may have you rolling the windows up and putting the air conditioning on full blast. The last thing you want is for that to fail!

If you don’t clean or replace your air filter, or you’re finding that your system is struggling to keep up, you could expect a warm and uncomfortable trip ahead. If you’re not too familiar with what to do, it helps to consult a professional mechanic.

3. Inspect your engine

As a driver, if you notice your car is producing an unusual sound when you start it or it feels heavy when you drive, don’t ignore the signs. You might find that your dashboard is displaying some warning lights so have it looked at straight away.

Things might be obvious if you open the bonnet. Have a look around the engine and see if anything looks odd or out of place. If you’re not sure, have a professional look at it.

And before taking off on a road trip you should check your oil levels to make sure your engine is well lubricated, your coolant so your radiator doesn’t overheat, and your water level for your windscreen wipers should you need them in adverse weather or just to clean the dirt off your windscreen.

4. Repair a chipped or cracked windscreen and any side windows or rear glass

A chip in your windscreen is often a seemingly tiny problem you want to push to the back of your mind. You know you have to repair it, but you may delay fixing it because it seems too trivial.

However, ignoring a windscreen chip could lead to it cracking, causing more problems for you later. So, take the time to examine your vehicle glass beforehand. Fixing a chip before it cracks is faster, cheaper and greener. So don’t wait.

If you need a professional to look at your vehicle’s glass surfaces, O'Brien^® offers a vehicle glass repair and replacement service, with an approved repairer network that covers 987% of Australia’s population and is contactable 24/7.

5. Test your tyres

Balding tyres can be dangerous – they lack traction and make it hard to brake. In addition, high pressure from high road temperatures can also cause changes in your tyres. To avoid accidents, conduct a visual inspection for tread wear, especially uneven wear, and replace tyres when they don’t serve their purpose anymore.

You also should check your tyre pressure regularly to see if they have enough air. Simply use a tyre pressure gauge which tends to be freely available at many service stations across the country.

Safety: a road frequently travelled

This checklist is a good start to preparing your car for wherever you want to head off for your summer road trip. However, even well-prepared explorers seek help from professionals.

Just remember, no matter where you are in Australia, you can call O'Brien^® to have your vehicle glass repaired or replaced. We can fix your problem in one of our nationwide branches or Authorised Dealer partners located across Australia, or our mobile technicians can also come to you.

That way, if a chip or a crack threatens your road trip, you can have it sorted and be back on the road in no time.

Make it a summer to remember with O'Brien^®

Whether you’re preparing for a trip or just having a regular car check-up, O'Brien^® knows how to help make your journey safe and memorable. With over 95 years of experience, our quality service makes us Australia’s leading vehicle glass repair and replacement company.

We understand our clients more than anyone else. So, feel free to start your road trip with a visit to a nearby O'Brien^® branch for your vehicle glass solutions.

For more information about our services, call us on 1800 059 829 or visit https://www.obrien.com.au/autoglass/.

The post Preparing Your Car for A Summer Road Trip appeared first on O'Brien.