Co-op Insurance offers tips on securing homes as Met Office issues yellow weather warning for England and Wales

11 March 2021

As heavy rain and powerful winds of up to 70mph are set to batter parts of the UK today and the Met Office issues a yellow weather warning across England and Wales, Co-op Insurance is offering consumers advice on how to secure their properties and vehicles.

Andrew Nevitt, Head of Co-op Home Insurance, says: “The Met Office alert came into force last night (Wednesday) and is set to last until this afternoon so we are expecting prolonged periods of high wind and rain over the next few days which mean roof tiles, TV aerials and trees could take something of a real battering. There are a number of simple yet proactive measures people can take to help protect their homes, gardens and vehicles that can make a real difference.”

Outside the home • Secure items in the garden such as furniture, pot plants, ladders and children’s toys, or bring inside your property if you have space • Check that your fence panels are secure • Park your car away from large trees if possible, in case of falling branches • If you are in a flood risk area, if possible move your car to higher ground where flooding is less likely – don’t drive as the flood hits as this is potentially dangerous

Inside the home • Make sure that all windows and doors are closed and locked • Make sure you have emergency contact numbers in a safe place i.e. insurance claims number and policy number, local authority and utility company contact details • If you can, move any valuable or essential items upstairs • Know where to switch off your utilities at the mains – gas, electricity and water • Back up computers and switch them off to avoid losing any sentimental items e.g. photographs • If you lose power, have a torch at the ready instead of candles as these could pose a fire hazard • Keep pets warm and indoors • If you live in a flood risk area, consider unplugging electrical items in case of any power surges and have a storm kit at the ready including a torch, blanket and all-weather clothing. Andrew continues: “If your home is damaged by bad weather, contact your insurer as soon as possible so that they can assess the level of damage and make the necessary arrangements to deal with your claim as they may also need to help you arrange alternative accommodation.”

Any Co-op Insurance customers affected who need to claim can call Co-op Insurance on our 24 hour claims line: 0345 999 8888 or visit the information pages on the website.

ENDS