Storms and gales

The two main dangers of a winter storm are exposure to the cold and car accidents. The best way to survive a storm is to plan and stay at home. Watch or listen to weather reports and listen to the advice being broadcast. 

Preparations to consider before a storm:

  • Secure loose objects such as ladders, garden furniture or anything else that could be blown into windows and other glazing and break them
  • Close and securely fasten doors and windows, particularly those on the windward side of the house, and especially large doors such as those on garages
  • 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 roof pitch is less than 30°
  • If the house is fitted with storm shutters over the windows, close them
  • If chimney stacks are tall and in poor condition, move beds away from areas directly below

During the 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
  • Do not go outside to repair damage while the storm is in progress
  • If possible, enter and leave your house through doors in 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 necessary
  • Take care when driving on exposed routes such as bridges, or high open roads, delay your journey or find alternative routes
  • Slow down and be aware of side winds, particular care should be taken if you are towing or are a high sided vehicle

After the storm:

  • Be careful not to touch any electrical or telephone cables that have been blown down or are still hanging
  • Do not walk too close to walls, buildings and trees as they could have been weakened
  • Make sure that any vulnerable neighbours or relatives are safe and help them arrange for any repairs

Power cuts

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks provide help about power cuts on their website. They also provide up to date news information. Their Power Track app can be used to report power cuts and for people requiring additional support you can use the free priority service register.

If you need to report a power cut please phone 105.

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