April 04, 2024 - 252 views
The UK’s leading rural insurer NFU Mutual is urging people to take action to prevent damage before Storm Kathleen brings dangerous winds to much of the UK this Saturday.
The storm will bring gusts of up to 70mph to the South West and North West of England, Western Scotland and all of Wales and Northern Ireland, posing a risk to individuals and potentially wreaking havoc on properties.
With wind storms often causing more damage than expected, NFU Mutual is urging all home and business owners to take action now to reduce the risk posed by Storm Kathleen.
Andrew Chalk, home insurance expert at NFU Mutual, said: "While we're not expecting this to be a massive storm, we know from experience that wind storms can cause millions of pounds of damage and be hugely disruptive to thousands of people.
"We have some warning of Storm Kathleen so our message to home and business owners is to take action now to prevent damage, if you you are able to do so - during a storm is too late.
"Gale-force winds can rip tiles from roofs or branches from trees, or topple walls, so if it's safe and you're able to do so you should think about securing roofs and walls and pruning overhanging branches. Likewise, loose garden furniture or ornaments can be thrown around in storms, effectively becoming battering rams, so tie them down or store them away from the wind.
"Make sure vehicles are kept in a safe place and ensure windows and doors can be and are shut during the storm.
"As well as taking the steps above, farmers and business owners should have a storm plan in place which ensures the safety of all workers and has a clear plan for maintaining contact. Prepare for power cuts and check any back-up generators are in working order.
"Livestock farmers should have a plan to move animals to safety, if possible, and ensure barn doors and fences can be secured.
"We know that isolated rural properties and those on the coast are generally most at risk from storm damage, so we urge people in these areas to be especially vigilant.
"As ever, NFU Mutual's loss adjusters and network of Agents will be ready to assist customers and move claims along, so have your insurer's details handy and don't delay in making a claim. NFU Mutual can pay some smaller claims immediately, so it might be you can start arranging repairs straight away."
