United Kingdom
Canada
05 March 2026
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent it's important to know what to do before, during and after a storm
How to prepare for a storm
- Sign up for weather warnings at met.ie and keep on top of the local weather news
- Secure loose objects in your grounds - such as ladders, furniture or anything else that could be blown into windows and other glazing
- Keep your property well maintained especially roofs and chimneys
- Close and securely fasten doors and windows including in garages or outbuildings
- Park vehicles in a garage, if available; otherwise keep them clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences
- Close and secure loft trapdoors with bolts, particularly if the roof pitch is less than 30°
- If your building is fitted with storm shutters make sure these are closed and fastened.
What to do during a storm
- Stay indoors as much as possible
- If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees
- Keep away from the sheltered side of boundary walls and fences — if these structures fail, they will collapse on this side
- Do not go outside to repair damage while the storm is in progress
- If possible, enter and leave your building through doors in the sheltered side, closing them behind you
- Open internal doors only as needed, and close them behind you
- Do not drive unless your journey is essential
- Take care when driving on exposed routes such as bridges, or high open roads. Delay your journey or find alternative routes if possible
- Slow down and be aware of side winds. Particular care should be taken if you are towing or driving a high sided vehicle
- Do not park cars near the seafront as damage by waves and shingle blown from a beach can cause significant damage
- Do not stand too near the seafront. Large waves are a danger.
After the storm
- Don't touch any electrical/telephone cables that have been blown down or are still hanging
- Do not walk too close to walls, buildings and trees as they could have been weakened
- Make sure that any vulnerable neighbours or relatives are safe and help them make arrangements for any repairs.
- Use a reputable contractor to make fallen trees and walls safe
We're here to help
Talk to us as soon as possible if damage has being caused to your property or contents. Often, the quicker you tell us about a possible claim, the easier it will be. Please all our claims team on 01 6190300 or visit our website ecclesiastical.ie.