By Ryan Price

Copyright manchestereveningnews

Five tips for staying safe in strong winds

1. Protect your property from damage and other people from injury

Don’t risk injury to others or damage to your property.

Check for loose items outside your home and plan how you could secure them in high winds.

2. Prepare for a journey

Windy weather can cause delays and make driving conditions dangerous.

Follow these few simple steps to prepare before journeys:

Plan your route, check for delays and road closures Listen out for travel updates on your car radio/sat nav If you don’t have essentials in your car then pack for the worst (warm clothing, food, drink, blanket, torch) Take a fully charged mobile phone with an in-car charger or battery pack

3. Drive safely in strong winds

Driving in these conditions can be dangerous, for yourself and other road users.

If you must drive, you can do this more safely by:Driving slowly to minimise the impact of wind gusts Be aware of high sided vehicles/caravans on more exposed roads Be cautious overtaking high sided vehicles/caravans Make sure you hold the steering wheel firmly Give cyclists, motorcyclists, lorries and buses more room than usual

4. Staying safe if you’re by the coast

If you live or work on the coast take extra care during windy and stormy weather.

Keep yourself and others safe by following these simple steps:

Check the forecasts and tides in your local areaBeware of large waves, even from the shore large breaking waves can sweep you off your feet and out to sea Take care if walking near cliffs – know your route and keep dogs on a lead In an emergency 999 (UK) or 112 (Ireland) and ask for the Coastguard

5. Avoid injury if you’re out and about

Being outside in high winds makes you more vulnerable to injury.

Stay indoors as much as possible.

If you do go out, try not to walk or shelter close to buildings and trees.