After what has been a relatively mild period in the run up to Christmas, several storms are due to hit the shores of the UK over the coming days. The following looks at what you can do to protect you, your family, your home and your business when the storms do hit.
Gale-force winds are the most common cause of damage to property in the United Kingdom. Although the majority of damage reports come from domestic dwellings, businesses also need to be aware of the risks in order to keep employees safe and minimise damage to buildings and contents. Storms with high winds can produce devastating consequences, bringing around £300 million in damages throughout the United Kingdom each year.
The United Kingdom’s National Weather Service, the Met Office, provides up-to-date weather advisories and warns the public of severe or hazardous weather through its National Severe Weather Warning Service. Warnings are given a colour (Green, Yellow, Amber or Red) based on the combination of both the likelihood of the severe weather event occurring and the impact the weather conditions may have. Make sure you check your local weather forecast to find out whether the Met Office has released any warnings for your area.
If the Met Office issues a warning for severe gales and high winds in your location, make sure you are prepared. Use the following tips and hints to help ensure your safety if high winds are prevalent.
Before the storm make plans to secure your property. Secure or bring in any loose objects, such as ladders, waste bins, equipment or anything else that could be blown away or into windows and glass. Securely fasten and close all doors, windows entrances and park all vehicles in a garage, if available. If not, keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences. Be sure trees and shrubs around your property are well-trimmed so they are more wind resistant.
Another useful tip would be to learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected if a storm surge or tidal flooding is forecasted.
During the storm, stay indoors as much as possible. It is always useful to listen to the radio or TV to keep updated on information.
By doing so, you can turn off utilities if instructed to minimise damage.
Stay away from windows and glass doors, take refuge in a small interior room, closet or hallway on the lowest level. Open internal doors only as needed and close them behind you.
Do not drive unless necessary. If you must drive, take care when driving on exposed routes, such as bridges. Slow down and be aware of side winds.
After the storm, stay alert for extended rainfall or flooding and inspect your property for damage. Take pictures of the damage, both of the building and its contents, for insurance purposes.
Stay safe when severe weather strikes by being prepared and checking weather forecasts and warnings.
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