Getting prepared for the worst the weather can throw at us

November 6, 2024

Most parts of the country had a taste of it at the beginning of 2024 and most recently, Storm Ashley caused devastation across some parts of the UK – so we can only shudder to think of what the weather will continue throw at us this winter.

So, how can you best prepare if more of the same is on its way?

Stay informed

The official government website makes no bones about it – the risk of flooding is widespread across large parts of the UK and as many as five million homes and businesses are at risk of flooding. Yet many of those likely to be affected remain blissfully ignorant of the risk and are, therefore, unprepared. If you don’t want to be one of them, visit Floodline to check the risk to your own property and sign up for flood warnings – it’s a completely free service.

Repairs and maintenance

You always need to maintain your property in a good state of repair – for your buildings insurance to remain valid and to maintain the capital value of the property.

In the train of storms and flooding, however, it is the poorly maintained property that is likely to suffer most, says the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Prepare for the winter storms ahead, therefore, by bringing your property up to a good state of repair :

• ensure there are no loose or missing tiles, as high winds and rain can cause further damage;

• blocked gutters can lead to water overflow, so make sure they are clean and free from debris. Check for cracks or leaks and repair them as needed;

• ensure flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is secure and watertight to prevent leaks during heavy rain.

   Install flood protection measures

• use portable flood barriers or sandbags to block entry points like doors and windows;

• install flood-resistant doors or fit removable covers over airbricks to prevent water from entering;

• make sure there are no cracks or gaps in walls and seal any entry points for pipes and cables;

Outside your home

• high winds can easily damage or knock over loose fences, sheds, or outdoor furniture. Make sure these are properly secured and anchored;

• cut back any overhanging branches that could fall onto your house, power lines, or vehicles during a storm;

• assess the trees around your property and remove any that are dead, dying, or weakened, as they can pose a significant risk in high winds;

Make your plan and pack your bag

• if your property is in an area at any risk of flooding, you’ll clearly need a plan of action for if the worst occurs;

• that plan will include a bag ready and packed with essential items you are likely to need whether you stay put or are able to make an escape – items such as daily medication (and any pet medication), first aid kit, waterproof warm clothing, drinking water, torch, and important documents (including the contact numbers for the emergency services, utilities and your home insurers);

• if the worst comes to the worst and your property is flooded or suffers storm damage, you’ll need to contact your insurers as soon as it is safe and realistic to do so, advises the Association of British Insurers (ABI);

Stay tuned

• stay tuned to the local radio or television for updates on the weather situation and news of approaching storms and flood warnings;

• a battery-operated radio will be especially useful for keeping in touch if the rising flood waters knock out your electricity supply or if the high winds have brought down electricity cables – so, make sure to check that you have sufficient fully-charged batteries.

• make sure, too, that your mobile phone is kept fully charged;

Store and secure

Finally, gather up and move to a higher place (on top of a cabinet or in upper drawers) any valuable, essential, or sentimental items for safekeeping as well as any electronics.

Keeping yourself informed and fully prepared is the best way of mitigating any damage caused by the inevitable storms of this coming winter. Although you may be lucky enough to escape any flood or storm damage altogether, the preparation will still have been well worthwhile.

Further reading: Government website: Prepare for flooding