High Winds, Storms and Gales

Storms can be unsettling, but taking a few simple steps before, during and after a storm can help keep you and your family safe.

Being prepared before a storm hits can make a big difference.

• Stay informed – always pay attention to weather warnings and any other alerts from relevant agencies to stay up-to-date. See here for useful numbers. (link)
• Secure loose items – make sure to secure things like ladders, garden furniture and anything else that could be blown around and damage your windows or glass.
• Check trees – if you notice trees that seem unstable or unsafe, report them to BHA by calling 0800 652 8104.
• Secure your bins – they can easily be blown over and damage your home or other property, so make sure they’re properly secured. Remember not all insurers will pay out for damage caused by bins if you haven’t made a reasonable attempt to secure them during a storm.
• Close doors and windows – make sure to check that doors and windows, especially on the windward side of the house, are securely fastened. Don’t forget about large garage doors!
  
• Park vehicles safely – if possible, park your car in a garage. If you don’t have one, keep your car clear of buildings, trees, walls and fences.
• Secure loft trapdoors – make sure your loft access hatches are closed properly, to avoid the wind getting in.
• Check storm shutters – if your home has storm shutters, make sure they’re shut and secured tightly.
• Report any loose items on your roof or outside your home – such items can cause serious damage during high winds. If you spot anything unsecured on your roof or around your home, let us know as soon you become aware of them.
  You can report the issue by calling us on 0800 652 8104.

Remember safety is your priority during the storm

• Stay updated – it’s important that you keep an eye on weather warnings and other updates from local agencies. Here a list of useful numbers.
• Stay indoors – remember the safest place to be is inside.
• Don’t attempt repairs during the storm – you should avoid going outside to fix any damage until the storm has passed.
• Call emergency services, if necessary – if your life or the safety of others are at risk, please dial 999 immediately.

Remember once the storm has passed, it’s still important to stay safe.

• Watch out for hazards – never touch any electrical or telephone cables that have been blown down or are hanging. These can be very dangerous.
• Stay away from weakened structures – be careful not to walk too close to walls, buildings or trees that may have been damaged by the storm.
• Check on your neighbours – help ensure that anyone who is elderly, alone or vulnerable is safe and supported. Help them arrange for repairs or report damage, if needed.
• Inspect your home – when it’s safe, take a walk around your house to check for any damage.
• Dangerous fallen trees – If you spot fallen trees or dangerous branches that pose an immediate risk, contact Scottish Borders Council on 0300 100 1800 (during office hours) or 01896 752 111 (emergency out of hours).

Report emergency repairs
An emergency repair is where there is an immediate risk to life and/or danger to property. Here’s a list priority repairs that BHA considers emergency repairs.

If you need to report urgent damage or an emergency repair, please call us at 0800 652 8104 (available 24/7 for emergencies).
From experience, our lines can get very busy after storms, so please be patient with us. We are committed to keeping you and your home safe.

Report non-emergency repairs
For less urgent repairs, you can call us during office hours or report the damage online here.

Stay connected
Keep an eye on our website and social media for any repair alerts or important updates.

Stay close to your phone
If you’re expecting a visit from us, please have your phone nearby and answer if we call. If we need to reschedule your appointment, we’ll let you know.

Other useful numbers

• Emergency Call: 999
• Power cut/ Electrical emergency: 105
• Gas emergency: 0800 111 999
• Scottish Water: 0800 077 8778