How to protect your home before, during, and after a hurricane

There is a threat of severe storms in parts of Britain on Friday due to Storm Iovine.

Weather warning in effect And forecasters say buildings could be damaged, travel is likely to be affected and power outages are possible.

There are several steps you can take to protect your property.

These include:

• Securing loose items such as bins, ladders, trampolines and outdoor games, garden furniture and equipment outside a property
• Checking that the fence and roof tiles are secure
• clearing debris such as moss and leaves
• Closing and securing external doors and windows
• Securing storm shutters, if they are fitted
• Parking your vehicle in a garage if you have one; Otherwise make sure they are as far away from buildings, trees and fences as possible
• Closing and securing scaffolding trap doors
• Making sure you know how to turn off your gas, electricity and water if you have to leave your home, for example due to flooding
• Charging mobile phones and any other important devices including battery packs

if you are in flood risk areaTry to move valuable or essential items upstairs or keep them as high as possible on the ground floor.

Make sure you have emergency contact numbers for your insurance company, local authority and utility companies.

You may also want to gather passports, driver’s licenses and insurance policies, and a few days’ supply of any regular medications you take.

Consider Adding emergency contacts and medical information to your mobile – often called “ICE” or “Medical ID” on smartphones.

RSPCA advises bring all animals inside before the stormAnd making sure you have enough food, bedding, and fresh water.

Listen for severe weather warnings on local radio and TV, and check government and news websites for the latest updates.

During storms, people are advised to stay inside as much as possible and keep interior doors closed.

If you have to go out, you should avoid going near buildings, trees and safe parts of walls or fences in case of collapse.

You should not attempt to repair any damage while a storm is underway.

If you have a power outage, turn off all non-essential electrical appliances, but leave a light on so you’ll know when the power comes back on. you can Report power cut online Or by calling 105, which is a free service in England, Scotland and Wales.

If you are trapped in flood water, you should go to the highest level of the building you are in. Avoid attic spaces due to the risk of being trapped by rising water, and only go onto the roof if absolutely necessary. Call 999 and wait for help.

Do not drive unless your journey is unavoidable, and Avoid flooded or exposed roads such as bridges or high open roads,

If you have to drive, make sure you have essential supplies like warm clothes, food, drinks, blankets and a flashlight, and carry a fully charged mobile.

Drive slowly, and be especially cautious around tall vehicles and when overtaking. Give extra space to other vehicles.

Most home buildings, contents and commercial business policies cover storm damage.

Comprehensive motor insurance covers the cost of repairing or replacing vehicles.

If a storm has caused damage to your property or assets you should:

• Don’t do anything that puts you or your family at risk
• Be especially careful around any exposed electrical or telephone cables.
• Return to your home or business after a storm only when it is safe to do so
• Contact your insurance company as soon as possible: most have 24-hour emergency helplines who can advise on next steps and arrange repairs
• If necessary, arrange for temporary emergency repairs to prevent any damage from getting worse. Tell your insurer and keep the receipts, as this will form part of your claim
• Unless they are dangerous, do not throw away damaged items without discussing with your insurer if they can be repaired.
• Remember that it can take weeks or even months for a property to completely dry out after storm damage, so you may have to wait a while before redecorating.