Storm tips

Plan ahead

• Visually check your roof for loose tiles or damaged chimney pots and get any problems repaired. Also make sure your TV aerial is secured
• Clear your guttering and drain pipes to avoid blockages. Consider fitting gutter leaf guards, especially if there are tall trees near your home
• Trim back any bushes or small trees that could damage your windows in a high wind
• Put a storm kit together that includes food, bottled water, a first aid kit, any necessary medication, emergency phone numbers, clothes, blankets, bin bags, a torch, batteries, a wind-up radio and a disposable camera (to take photos of any damage for your insurance company)
• Make sure you know where to turn off your electricity, gas and water supplies

Before a storm arrives

• Secure any loose garden items, such as tools and chairs, to prevent them from being blown away
• Unplug all non-essential electrical devices to avoid damage from power surges caused by lightning strikes
• Park your car in a garage if possible or move it away from buildings and trees

During a storm

• Keep your doors, windows and storm shutters (if you have them) closed
• Close your curtains to protect against breaking glass
• Only open internal doors when needed and close them behind you
• Don't try and repair any damage outside until the storm has passed
• If you need to evacuate, turn off your gas, water and electricity before you leave (if safe to do so)

After a storm has passed

• If your home has been damaged by the storm, contact your insurance company immediately
• Keep away from trees and outside walls as they may have been damaged in the storm
• If you've lost power at night, use torches rather than candles for light to avoid a fire hazard

Fixing storm damage can be very expensive. AA Buildings Insurance can cover your home against damage caused by storms.