Severe weather seems to be on the rise and, right now, we’re bang in the middle of winter storm season. Here are three tips to help protect your home and keep you and your family safe.

1. Stock up on the basics

While no one wants to be a panic buyer (or a hoarder), keeping some basic supplies in at all times is a good idea. This way, you won’t need to go out shopping in severe weather.

Keep a stock of tinned, bottled and dried foods to whip up simple meals easily. Good store cupboard essentials include canned veg. (especially baked beans), canned fish, soups, pasta, rice and cooking sauces.

Don’t forget other essentials like bottled water, UHT milk, and loo roll.

2. Prepare for power outages

In severe storms, the power supply is often the first thing to go. So make sure you have backup lighting and power.

Candles may be romantic but are not that safe or practical. LED torches and lanterns are cheap (try your local pound shop) and give hundreds of hours of light.

It’s worth investing in a rechargeable power bank or two. You can use them to charge your all-important phones, laptops and tablets. You can keep in touch, listen to the radio and watch TV or films.

If you’re a pensioner or vulnerable, you can ask to join your utility company’s Priority Services Register. This can entitle you to priority support in an emergency. More details from Ofgem here.

3. Batten down the hatches

When a severe storm is forecast, take ten minutes to go around your home and ensure it is ‘storm-ready’.

Check for UK weather warnings from the Met Office now.

Make sure windows, doors and gates are shut and secured.

Put garden furniture and outdoor play equipment in a shed or garage, or tie it down.

Wheelie bins can be dangerous in high winds. Lay them flat. 

If you’re in a flood-risk area, get ready to move furniture upstairs, move cars to higher ground and deploy flood barriers if you have them.

Check official flood risk warnings for the next 5 days now.

Do you have a relative, neighbour or friend who would find these tips useful? If so, feel free to share this article with them.