Storms

Severe storms are rare in this country, and although there are plenty of thunder storms and lightning strikes they are mostly restricted to harmless ground strikes. However, there is little point in tempting fate so here are some precautions you can take to avoid the likelihood of being struck, or suffering the effects of a storm.

How do I prepare for this incident?

• Insure property and possessions.
• Have emergency provisions ready.
• Keep a list of numbers of vulnerable people in your neighbourhood so you can help ensure they are properly prepared as well, and that they are getting the warnings.
• Secure outdoor items and bring as much as possible indoors, including pets.
• Do as much as you can in daylight. Doing anything in the dark will be a lot harder, especially if the electricity fails.
• Close windows, clear window sills and pull curtains to protect against flying glass. Unplug TVs and computers at the mains and unplug aerials from the sockets. If you have a telephone connection to your computer, unplug that at the wall socket. A lightning strike on the line will destroy your modem.
• If your house is particularly exposed prepare shutters and fasteners to protect your windows.
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• Severe storms can have other problems associated with them, i.e. localised flooding, loss of power, etc. Be prepared for these events as well.

What do I do during this incident?

Go in, Stay in, Tune in

• More details can be found on the Go in, Stay in, Tune in page.

• Stay indoors and away from windows, and downstairs if possible. Do not leave your home unless you have to.
• Keep listening to your local radio station.
• If you are caught out in the open run for cover, but not under trees, especially lone trees out in the open as these attract lightning, which will seek out the highest point within its range. If there is no cover get as low as you can for the same reason.
• If you in a car, stay there, as lightning will be conducted through the body of the car to the ground.

What do I do after this incident?

• If gas, electricity or water is cut off, tell relevant service (close gas taps until informed that it is safe to reopen them).
• Without risking your personal safety, rope off or protect any damaged areas to prevent injuries, e.g. from falling masonry, broken glass or electricity cables.
• Call your insurance company's (24 hour) Emergency Helpline as soon as possible. They will be able to provide information on dealing with your claim, and assist in getting things back to normal.
• Keep a record of the damage (especially with photographs or video footage), make notes of all phone calls to insurers and what was said, and retain correspondence with insurers after the storm.
• Get advice where detailed, lengthy repairs are needed. Your insurer or loss adjuster can give advice on reputable contractors / tradesmen. Beware of bogus tradesmen and always check references.
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• Check with your insurer if you have to move into alternative accommodation as the cost is normally covered under a household policy, and make sure your insurance company knows where to contact you if you have to move out of your home.

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