Protecting What You Love When Weather Strikes: A Storm Survival Guide

February is the month of love, and in Ireland, it's also very much storm season. While Valentine's Day reminds us to show love to the people in our lives, winter weather is a timely nudge to look after the things that quietly look after us every day: our homes, our cars, and for many, the vans that keep their livelihoods moving.

Storms have a way of arriving uninvited. One minute it's business as usual, the next it's high winds, heavy rain, and crossed fingers. The good news? A little preparation goes a long way. With the right knowledge and the right cover you can face storm season feeling calm, capable, and confident that what you love is protected.

This guide is here to help you do just that. Think of it as advice from a friendly neighbour who's been through a few Irish winters and wants you to be ready, whatever the forecast brings.

Storm Prep Basics: Before the Weather Turns

No matter what kind of cover you have, there are a few simple habits that help everyone weather a storm a little better.

Stay weather-aware

Keeping an eye on forecasts and Met Éireann weather warnings gives you time to act before conditions worsen. Even a few hours' notice can make all the difference.

Create a quick storm checklist

Knowing what you'll secure, move, or check ahead of time takes the stress out of last-minute decisions. It also means you're less likely to forget something important when the wind starts picking up.

Document what matters

Taking photos or videos of your home, car, van, and valuables while everything is in good condition can be incredibly helpful if you ever need to make a claim. It's a small step now that can save a lot of hassle later.

Preparation and insurance work best as a team. The steps you take before a storm help reduce risk, and your cover is there to support you if the unexpected still happens.

Protecting Your Home: Looking After the Place That Looks After You

Your home does a lot for you. It keeps you warm, dry, safe, and grounded, especially during a storm. Showing it a little extra care before bad weather rolls in can help prevent damage and give you peace of mind.

Before a Storm

• Secure outdoor furniture, bins, plant pots, trampolines, and garden décor so they don't become airborne.
• Clear gutters, drains, and grates to help rainwater flow away from your home.
• Check roof tiles, flashing, fences, sheds, and gates for loose or damaged parts.
• Make sure windows and doors close and seal properly.

During a Storm (If You're at Home)

• Avoid unnecessary trips outside, especially in high winds.
• Be mindful with electricity by unplugging non-essential items if you're concerned about power surges.
• Stay clear of damaged structures, loose tiles, or fallen branches.

If You're Away

Storms don't wait for you to be home, and they don't mind bad timing. If you're travelling during midterm or heading away for a break:

• Turn off the water supply if appropriate.
• Ask a neighbour or friend to check in if weather warnings are issued.
• Use timers for lights and double-check windows and doors are locked and secure.

Even with the best preparation, storms can be unpredictable. That's where home insurance steps in, helping protect the place that holds your memories when nature has other plans.

Protecting Your Car: Keeping You Moving, Safely

Your car isn't just metal and wheels, it's school runs, weekend plans, commutes, and freedom. Stormy weather calls for a bit of extra care, whether you're parked at home or out on the road.

Park smart when you can

If possible, park away from trees, walls, and structures that could come loose in high winds. Avoid known flood-prone areas, especially during heavy rainfall warnings.

Drive with the weather in mind

• Slow down and allow extra braking distance.
• Never drive through floodwater — even shallow water can cause serious damage and is harder to judge than it looks.
• Be especially cautious on exposed roads, bridges, and coastal routes.

If damage happens

If your car is damaged by wind, falling debris, or flooding, take photos once it's safe to do so and avoid driving the vehicle if there's any risk of further damage.

Comprehensive car insurance can help cover storm-related damage, taking some of the stress out of a situation that's already unsettling.

Protecting Your Van: Because It's More Than Just a Vehicle

For many people, a van is a livelihood on wheels. It carries tools, stock, equipment, and the means to earn a living, which makes protecting it during storms especially important.

Secure what's inside

Lock away tools and equipment, and avoid leaving valuable items on display. If severe weather is forecast, consider removing essential tools overnight if possible.

Choose parking carefully

High winds can be particularly tough on larger vehicles. Park in sheltered areas and away from objects that could fall or be blown into your van.

Plan for downtime

If storms force you off the road, having the right van insurance cover helps protect not just your vehicle, but your business continuity and peace of mind.

When your van is looked after, you can focus on getting back to work once the weather clears and without added worry.

After the Storm: If Damage Occurs

Once the storm has passed, take things step by step.

• Put safety first and watch out for hazards like loose wires, unstable structures, or flooding.
• Document any damage with photos or videos before starting repairs.
• Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage where it's safe to do so.
• Get in touch with your insurer as soon as you can for guidance and support.

You're not expected to handle everything alone. Help is there when you need it most.

Peace of Mind, Whatever the Weather

Storm season is part of life in Ireland but feeling overwhelmed by it doesn't have to be. Protecting what you love starts before the first gust of wind, with small, practical steps and the reassurance of having the right cover in place.

When preparation meets protection, storms feel a little less daunting, and you can focus on what really matters, whatever the forecast.

Storm season ready? Make sure your home is covered with home insurance.