75mph winds as Storm Evert hits

As the weather takes a turn for the worst, the Met Office have named the coastal gales and rain that have battered the South West of the UK over the last few days as Storm Evert.

Amber wind warnings have been issued for Cornwall, the Isle of Scilly and yellow warnings remain for most of the South West, southern Wales and south coast of England. Gusts of wind could reach up to 75mph in some areas and could lead to damage to properties and commercial dwellings.

If you are concerned that you may be affected by Storm Evert, you should:

•   Stay indoors as much as possible. If you must leave, remember to take an emergency kit with you.
•  If you do go out, try to avoid walking or sheltering close to buildings and trees. Keep away from the sheltered side of boundary walls and fences.
• Do not go outside to repair damage whilst the storm is in progress.
• If possible, enter and leave your property through doors on the sheltered side of the property.
• Open internal doors only as needed and keep them closed behind you.
• Do not drive unless necessary. If you must drive, avoid routes that involve crossing bridges or high open roads. Be aware of side winds.
• Do not park cars along the seafront, waves can cause significant damage to vehicles. Do not stand near seafront areas, the large waves are dangerous.
• Where possible, avoid entering flood water as it may contain sewage. Move to the upstairs of your property and keep safe and warm.
•  If your property begins to flood, turn off the electrics and water supply.
• Follow the advice of your Local Authority, they will have an emergency plan in place.

After the Storm

• Be careful not to touch any electrical/telephone wires that have been blown down during the storm. Take care when lifting debris.
• Do not walk too close to walls, buildings and trees as they could have been weakened.
•   If your house has suffered a flood, do not turn on the electrics until a qualified electrician has deemed it safe to do so.
• Make sure that any vulnerable neighbours or relatives are safe.

If your properties suffer storm damage, contact your insurance broker regarding next steps. At Centor Insurance & Risk Management we offer our clients an in-house claims department who can guide you through the process and manage your claim.

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