Disturbing public order
Health hazards
Technological hazards
Natural hazards
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StormsStrong winds can be devastating and cause extensive damage. Although violent gusts cannot always be predicted, a few preventive measures can limit the damage.
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Always
- Ensure that your roof is properly maintained and check that there are no loose tiles.
- Check that your gutters are not clogged.
- Periodically have the exterior of your chimney checked (risk of collapse).
When a storm is forecast
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Move anything that could be carried away by the wind inside if possible, or secure it, e.g. garden furniture, toys, trampoline.
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Close windows and doors.
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If the storm is accompanied by thunderstorms, unplug your computer(s), TV(s) and other electrical appliances.
- Make sure your pets are indoors.
Find out what you can by monitoring the media and following the recommendations of the authorities in case of a storm warning.
Do not hesitate to help your neighbours if necessary.
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- If you are in an open space, never shelter under a tree in strong winds.
- Stay indoors and only go outside if it is really necessary.
If you absolutely must go out during a storm
- Avoid touching electrical cables on the ground, because they may be live.
If you need to travel
- Always drive on primary roads and avoid routes through a forest.
- Do not park your vehicle near trees.
A storm may be accompanied by heavy rain and thunderstorms, in that case:
- Avoid driving on roads that are under water.
- Go inside the nearest building and never shelter under a tree.
- Turn on the radio, television and other electrical appliances off.
- Listen to the weather forecast via a battery-powered radio or your smartphone.
- If you are in an open space, never shelter under a tree in strong winds.
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Your home
- Has your roof been damaged? The emergency services can evaluate the need to temporarily cover certain damaged roofs with tarpaulins (short-term solution). Do not postpone repairing a damaged roof, to avoid having additional problems. Contact private building contractors urgently.
- If the storm brought debris with it, check with your municipality to see if they have arranged collections.
- Call 1722 for non-urgent interventions of the fire brigade (fallen tree, mudslide, ...). Keep the emergency number 112 free for those who are in peril of death.
Insurance
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will answer your questions and help you to start the procedure to settle a claim.
- Take photos of the damaged areas: they can be useful for your claim dossier.
- Find out information from the local authorities: they will provide you with useful information about the consequences of the emergency.