How to prepare for a storm
- Sign up for severe weather warnings at metoffice.gov.uk and keep on top of the latest local weather news
- Keep your property well-maintained, especially roofs and chimneys
- Secure loose objects such as ladders, garden furniture, and anything else that could be blown into windows
- Close and securely fasten doors and windows, including those in garages or other outbuildings
- Park vehicles in a garage, if available. Otherwise, keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls, and fences
- Close and secure loft trapdoors with bolts, particularly if the roof pitch is less than 30°
- If your building is fitted with storm shutters, make sure they’re closed and fastened.
What to do during a storm
- Stay indoors as much as possible
- If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees
- Keep away from the sheltered side of boundary walls and fences — if these structures fail, they will collapse on this side
- Don’t go outside to repair damage while the storm is in progress
- If possible, enter and leave your building through doors on the sheltered side, closing them behind you
- Open internal doors only as needed, and close them behind you
- Do not drive unless your journey is essential
- Take care when driving on exposed routes such as bridges or high open roads. Delay your journey or find alternative routes if possible
- Slow down and be aware of side winds. Take extra care if you’re towing a trailer or caravan or driving a high-sided vehicle
- Do not park cars near the seafront as waves and blown shingle can cause significant damage
- Do not stand too near the seafront. Large waves are a danger.
After the storm
- Don’t touch any electrical or telephone cables that have been blown down or are still hanging.
- Don’t walk too close to walls, buildings and trees as they could have been weakened.
- Make sure that vulnerable neighbours or relatives are safe and help them organise repairs.
- Use a reputable contractor to make fallen trees and walls safe.
We’re here to help
Talk to us as soon as possible if damage has been caused to your property or its contents. Often, the quicker you tell us about a possible claim, the easier it will be. Please call our claims team on 0345 603 8381 or visit our webpage.