Staying safe in stormy weather
In the UK, strong winds are one of the most common causes of damage and disruption when it comes to weather. Sadly between 1962-1995 there were 184 deaths caused by building failures resulting from strong winds
It is key to ensure you know how to stay safe and be prepared to protect yourself and property, especially as these type of weather events are becoming more frequent as our climate is changing
Ahead of the storm
Secure loose objects, these could be ladders or wheelie bins. Anything that could be picked up in the wind and blown into glazing causing it to break
Ensure all windows and doors are securely fastened/closed particularly on the windward side of properties and especially large area doors such as garage doors
Ensure that any loft hatches are closed and secured to ensure any roof damage does not subsequently fall into other areas of the property. Low angle roof pitch can also cause wind to enter the property between the tiles and create considerable drafts inside the property
If your property is fitted with storm shutters over windows, then ensure that these are closed and fastened
Visually check state of chimney stacks and if they are tall or any query over stability, moves beds away from areas directly beneath
During the storm
Stay indoors as much as possible
If you need to leave your property and are walking, try not to walk close to or shelter by buildings and trees. Try to leave the property through doors on the sheltered side of the property ensure they are closed securely behind you
Keep internal doors closed where possible
Keep away from the sheltered side of any boundary walls and fences as these could collapse onto you if you are on this side and they fail
Do not go outside to attempt any damage repairs during the storm
Limit any journeys by road, especially if driving on exposed routes such as bridges or high open roads. If you can you are recommended to delay any journeys until the storm has passed
If driving a high-sided vehicle or towing a trailer than slow down and take extra care
Do not drive or leave home unless absolutely necessary
After the storm
Do not touch any cables that have been blown down
Consider that walls, structures and trees may have been weakened and therefore try to keep distance when walking around
Make sure that vulnerable friends, neighbours and relatives are safe and help them to make arrangements for any repairs
