Reducing the Impact of Storm Damage
Before the Storm
As well as keeping an eye on everyday weather forecasts and listening out for warnings on TV and radio, checks should be made on the Met Office website for severe weather warnings. Ensure that emergency contact numbers such as those of insurers, insurance brokers, local authority and utility companies are kept to hand in a safe place. Ensure that portable buildings, such as sheds or portacabins are suitably anchored and outdoor equipment and materials moved to a safe indoor location. Check the anchoring of roof-mounted equipment such as air conditioning units , satelight dishes and exhaust vents, etc. Remove loose waste materials and debris from outside the property and secure all waste bins where appropriate.
During the Storm
Keep up to date on weather information and continue to adhere to the advice of the emergency services and other agencies. Don’t go outside to repair damage while the storm is in progress. Avoid all travel unless absolutely necessary. In circumstances where travel is unavoidable, don’t walk or shelter close to buildings and trees, and keep away from the sheltered side of boundary walls and fences. Care should be taken when driving on exposed roads or bridges – ideally delay the journey or find an alternative route.
After the Storm
Secure the property and identify the damage. If evacuated do not re-enter the property until advised as safe to do so by a competent person, and that people are kept away from structures or trees that could have been weakened. Visually check the electrical installation before restarting and be careful not to touch any electrical/ telecoms cables that have been blown down or are still hanging.
