Severe weather advice

16 December 2011

The Jersey Fire and Rescue Service has issued advice for Islanders on how to stay safe during periods of high winds and heavy downpours.

Islanders are being advised to:

• consider moving rubbish bins, patio furniture, barbecues and other items that could become wind borne inside
• check that boat moorings are secure
• stay indoors
• be vigilant when outside to avoid being hit by falling debris

Fire and Rescue Service Station Commander, Marc Le Cornu, said “When the Island suffers severe weather events the emergency services can become stretched. It is important that Islanders understand the limitations of the Fire and Rescue Service as we can easily get overwhelmed with calls for assistance especially during periods of heavy rain and strong winds."

During strong winds the Fire and Rescue Service usually receives calls for help to deal with dislodged scaffold boards and scaffolding covers; structural damage to buildings; loose building materials in precarious positions and loose fascia boards. During heavy prolonged downpours the service also receives calls for help to deal with flooding.

Station Commander Le Cornu said “Where water is entering a building with no real threat to life, then this can generally be managed by the homeowner by brushing out the water or scooping the water out with dustpans. Although distressing, once water has entered the home there is nothing that the Fire and Rescue Service can do until the conditions have improved.

"It is important that people do call us if they have water entering their property and cannot get out unaided, if water is entering electrics and there is a concern of fire or electrocution or if people are concerned over loose items that may have the potential to be blown off and cause damage or injury."

Station Commander Le Cornu said that people should stay indoors during high winds and heavy downpours unless absolutely necessary, as items could be thrown around and roof tiles and branches could become dislodged. There is also a risk that loose debris will fall after the storm has subsided.