Consider the possibility of power and water cuts.

Think about what you’ll need if you have to hunker down at home from one or two to several days.

How many of you are there? 

Do you have heating, lighting and power alternatives such as candles, torches, battery operated lights? How will you charge your phone?  Do you have a power bank (or two!). 

Check your cupboards. Do you have enough tinned, dried food and water for everyone in your household? During the year bottled water is readily available in the supermarkets...at storm time THEY ARE NOT. Perhaps pick up a 5ltr bottle or two throughout the year along with dried/tinned food to avoid the inevitable rush wen you need it most.

Do you have a way of cooking food and boiling water ie: a gas hob or camping stove? Do you have enough gas? Ensure you have the correct spare gas bottles for such an eventuality and store them safely.

Do you have a first aid kit? Does anyone in your household require medications? Keep a fully stocked first aid kit (bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, scissors, tweezers, etc.) Ensure you have essential medications (at least a week’s supply). Keep prescription copies and a medical information list.

Keep a list of emergency contacts (family, friends, local authorities) along with copies of important documents (passport, insurance, medical records) in a secure, waterproof bag.

Stay connected with neighbours, especially in rural areas. In a tight-knit community like many in Ireland, connecting with neighbours can be incredibly helpful. Check in on those who might need extra help, such as elderly neighbours or young families.

Practice Safety Skills: Basic first aid and knowing how to safely turn off utilities can be invaluable particularly if you need to help someone who might be elderly or vulnerable. Many organizations offer courses in first aid, including the Irish Red Cross and St. John Ambulance Ireland.