Top tips to be WeatherReady

There are a few simple steps you can take to prepare yourself, your vehicle and your home or business.

• Have basic supplies ready for storms

  We are so reliant on the internet, but if a storm meant power and mobile phone networks were affected, what would you do?  Consider a separate battery charger, and you could store key information such as the power cut helpline number (105) on your phone.

  Make sure you have basic supplies in case you have to leave home quickly, or your power and water are disrupted. It's worth putting together a 'grab bag', with bottled water, medicines, a torch, radio and batteries, copies of important documents and a change of clothes.
• Keep your home warm

  Cold weather can be a risk to your health, particularly if you are over 65 or have health conditions. Ideally your home and those of elderly relatives and neighbours should be heated to at least 18°C.

  Find out more about heating your home.

• Make the most of the weather

  No one wants to have to stay indoors all winter long, but when the weather takes a turn for the worse it can be tricky to get out and about. When the weather is really bad, it’s best to stay indoors. Why not make the time to call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while or take up a new hobby or learn a new skill.   

  When the weather is a bit milder, try to take that time to get some fresh air and run any errands you have. Make sure to wrap up warm when going outside; you could try wearing multiple thinner layers so you can take a layer off if you get too warm.

  Make sure you check the weather forecast before you go out. You can keep up to date with the latest forecasts on the Met Office website, app and social media channels.

• Weatherproof your home and garden

  Think about what may be impacted around your home and garden whether it’s by strong winds, heavy rain, snow or extreme cold.

  In windy weather surprising things can become dangerous. Trees or branches can come down, cast iron guttering could be lethal and so can roof slates. Garden furniture and even children’s toys and trampolines can fly around causing damage and potential harm and fences can become problems too. 

  There are some simple things you could do to prepare, from checking your fences and roof tiles to securing any outdoor furniture.

• Travelling in winter

  It’s worth thinking about how you might get to work, or the shops in the event of severe weather. Sometimes roads may be more affected than the rail network, but on other occasions the opposite may be true. You may also be able to use a bus if the main roads are clear. Think about whether there's an option for you to work from home or do an online shop if travel is not advised? 

  Checking your car is ready for winter is important. Take a quick check of your tyres. Use a screen wash additive to keep your windscreen free of winter road grime caused by road salting and gritting. Getting stuck in your car in winter could be dangerous, so get a winter car kit ready. You never know when you might need it.

• Think of vulnerable neighbours

  Not everyone is able to access the help or information they may require to keep them safe and well in winter. It's nice to be neighbourly and the human contact with others can have positive effects for everyone. You may be able to help your neighbour with an important job to prepare for winter, or your neighbour may be able to help you. Just taking time to make contact will be appreciated. 

Help your friends, neighbours and community be WeatherReady for the winter.