Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
National
Mark Brown North of England correspondent

Buy batteries and keep pets safe: how to prepare for Storm Eunice

Winter weather in Dunsden, Oxfordshire
The calm before the storm: now’s the time to check you’ve got batteries for torches and radios. Photograph: Geoffrey Swaine/Rex/Shutterstock

Obviously it’s a cliche, but “be prepared” is the best advice ahead of Storm Eunice, which could bring gusts of up to 90mph as well as heavy snow and blizzards.

Power cuts caused by fallen trees are highly likely and there are a few straightforward things which people can do in preparation, Northumberland fire and rescue service said.

That includes checking you’ve got batteries for torches and radios. Have some food in that doesn’t need cooking. Charge your mobile phone. Check in with elderly neighbours.

If power is down then turn off electrical appliances at the socket in case everything comes on when you’re not there or asleep. Torches are safer than candles.

Most councils will have a page on their website giving information about storms and who to contact if the power is out or you need to report a fallen tree.

The advice from road agencies and travel companies is for people not to go out on Friday unless they absolutely need to.

“For anyone who has to set out, we recommend sticking to major roads and avoiding exposed and coastal routes,” said Rod Dennis, a spokesperson for RAC Breakdown. “It’s also vital to reduce speeds and to take extra care when passing high-sided vehicles so as not to get buffeted off course.”

If there is ice or snow then be gentle on the accelerator. If the car skids “it’s best to gently steer into the direction of the skid and wait for the car to regain grip. Avoid the temptation to stamp on the brake.”

During previous storms there have been alarming reports of cats being lifted in the air and dogs being swept away.

Amy Ockelford, a spokesperson for the RSPCA, said: “We’re urging pet owners to keep an eye on the forecast where they live and to plan ahead to ensure the safety of their animals.”

Tips to keep pets safe include planning dog walks around the worst of the weather and avoiding dangerous locations. Wear reflective clothing. If the dog is old or feels the cold get them a jacket to keep warm.

For cats, ensure they have access to the house or a warm, inside area where they can escape the weather. If conditions are extreme consider keeping the cat inside.

It’s not just pets, the RSPCA says. Wild animals can struggle to find food and water during extreme weather or may get lost so consider leaving out food and water for them.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.