Are you ready for storms?

If heavy winds and rain are on the cards, it can be prudent to make preparations to limit damage to your home, not to mention help protect you and your loved ones. We’ve put together 11 handy tips that could save you money as well as worry, keeping you safe and sound in a storm.

CHECK THE FORECAST
Monitor local weather reports for updates. If you have an idea when the storm will hit, you should try to be indoors or somewhere sheltered, and if you can, carry out the following checks on your home.

SECURE LOOSE ITEMS
Ladders, garden furniture, bins and hanging baskets could break windows or damage cars if they blow around. Wherever possible, make sure they’re put away or secured down before the storm starts.

GATES, GARAGES AND SHEDS
Strong winds can blow open or unlocked doors off their hinges. This could leave you with costly damage to repair as well as compromising the security of your belongings. Check sheds, garages and gates are shut and locked before the storm hits.

CHIMNEYS
If you use an open or wood burning fire, then you should have the chimney and flues swept every year. This will clear the potentially dangerous build-up of soot and any obstructions that may have occurred over the warmer months.

DRAINS AND GUTTERING
Clearing leaves and debris that could cause a blockage will help heavy rain flow freely away from your home avoiding potential floods.

THE ROOF
If you suspect your home has loose roof tiles or an unstable chimneystack, it’s worth getting these fixed before the storm hits. Under no circumstances should you attempt to repair damage while the storm is in progress.

EMERGENCY LIGHTING
Ensure torches are in working order and you have plenty of spare batteries in case the power goes off. Candles and dry matches in an easy-to-reach place can also make life simpler.

FOOD AND WATER
Having bottled water and non-perishable food in – like tins of soup, cereal and long life milk – makes sense if severe weather is forecast so you don’t have to venture out. And don’t forget food for your furry friends.

STAY IN TOUCH
If your power goes off, charging up phones will be impossible and TVs and radios won’t work. That’s where a battery powered or wind-up radio comes into its own so you can stay abreast of weather warnings, local news and safety advice.

FIRST AID
Stock up on plasters, bandages and everyday medicines (aspirin, for example) in case of minor injuries or illness. If you require prescription medication, ensure you have a few days’ supply. Knowing where to lay your hands on warm blankets or sleeping bags is also a good idea.

KNOW WHO TO CONTACT IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
Having useful numbers together in one place means you won’t have to go looking for them in an emergency.