Local newsNews
Severe weather safety tips: How to stay safe during heavy rain, floods, hail and snow
Simple precautions can help protect you, your family, your vehicle and your home during heavy rain, flooding, hail and snow.
Driving in Heavy Rain
- Avoid roads and areas prone to flooding, especially during heavy downpours.
- Listen to local radio stations for weather and traffic updates and plan your route accordingly.
- Reduce your speed and increase your following distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Switch on your headlights, but avoid using high beams.
- Stay alert and be aware of other vehicles, particularly when visibility is poor.
- Obey all traffic laws, including temporary road signs and flood warning signs.
If You Encounter Floodwater
- Stay calm and do not panic.
- Never drive through water if you cannot see the road surface beneath it.
- Do not ignore or drive around road closures or barricades—they are there for your safety.
- If your vehicle becomes trapped in rising water, stop immediately, leave the vehicle if it is safe to do so, and move to higher ground. Your safety and that of your passengers is more important than your vehicle.
Protecting Your Vehicle from Hail and Snow
- If possible, use a GPS or maps application to find nearby covered parking, such as a shopping centre.
- Cover your vehicle with thick blankets if no shelter is available.
- Consider installing an affordable carport to protect your vehicle from the elements.
- Ensure your vehicle is insured for its correct value and that your policy covers hail damage.
Protecting Your Home
- Clear gutters regularly to prevent blockages and water damage.
- Inspect and maintain your roof to reduce the risk of leaks.
- Trim trees and shrubs to minimise damage from falling branches.
- Secure or store outdoor furniture before severe weather arrives.
- Make sure your home and household contents are insured for their correct replacement value.
At Caxton, every story is written by humans. We use AI only to perform quality checks - never to generate the news. Happy reading!



