BRIMBANK’s SES volunteers are finding it difficult to get time off work to help the community.

After a storm lashed Melbourne two weeks ago, the unit has found it difficult to respond in the worst hit areas of Knox and Emerald because some companies and businesses were not giving volunteers time off.

Brimbank SES unit controller Brad Dalgleish said he has been trying to pick up crews from interstate and put them into Brimbank’s trucks to cover the shortfall.

He said some of the self-employed members have taken several days off at a time, without pay, to volunteer.

But he said the larger sales and warehouse companies were not giving their employees the time off.

Mr Dalgleish said storms were getting more severe and were different to those of five years ago, which meant he needed the efforts of all his volunteers.

“We haven’t had a break in over two years…the calls are never-ending,” he said.

The SES found a lot of damage from the recent storm could’ve been reduced if people maintained their homes.

Coming into the winter months, Mr Dalgleish said it was important homeowners cleaned their gutters regularly and trimmed trees around their house.

“If you can’t do it yourself, talk to your neighbours, ask your family if they can help,” he said.

Brimbank City Council supports elderly people or people with a disability through its Home and Community Care program, which helps with home maintenance including lawn mowing, home safety measures and minor repairs.

For further details phone the council on 9249 4000.