Experts give advice on what you need to buy to prepare for winter weather

Storm Austen is forecast to thrash parts of the UK with heavy rain and gusts of wind reaching almost 80mph in coastal regions.

A “danger to life” warning for those living near sea fronts and coastal roads due to large waves and the possibility of beach debris being thrown, while three weather warnings are in place, with the Met Office warning power cuts and building damage is likely.

Experts are urging people to prepare for the first named storm of the season by packing an emergency kit, keeping up to date with forecast changes and making sure homes and cars are winter ready.

It comes as just one in eight (13 per cent) people say they are ready for severe winter weather.

What should you buy for an emergency kit?

An emergency kit filled with essentials for staying warm, food and water, as well as medical supplies, can help during power cuts and if it is unsafe to go outside.

According to the Red Cross a home emergency unit should include:

• list of emergency contact numbers (paper copy, in case your phone loses power)
• portable power bank
• cash for essentials (like food or fuel)
• torch and radio (battery or wind-up), spare batteries
• essential medication (and backup power for medical equipment, if needed)
• first aid kit (e.g., plasters, bandages, antiseptic, gloves)
• hand sanitiser and wet wipes
• three days’ supply of bottled water and long-life, ready-to-eat food (include a tin opener)
• copies of important documents (kept in a waterproof bag)
• pencil and paper
• spare house and car keys
• baby and pet supplies (if needed)

Blankets, spare clothes, hygiene products and a camping stove could also be useful in the event of power outages, the charity added.

The Met Office also urges people to check forecasts and warnings regularly, ensuring homes and vehicles are ready for severe weather, and looking out for vulnerable friends, family members and neighbours can all help to reduce disruption when bad weather strikes.

How to stay safe in strong winds

Winds of up to 80mph are forecast for several coastal areas on Friday and there are several ways to prepare.

The Met Office suggests checking for loose items outside your home such as plant pots, garden furniture and trampolines and making sure they are secure to avoid damage to your home or injuring other people.

Before travelling, experts suggest planning a route, checking weather updates and bringing a battery pack, food and water with you.

Those planning to visit the coast should take extra care, with large waves, strong winds and dangerous sea conditions possible.

RNLI Water Safety Manager, Ross Macleod said: "Storm Austen is set to bring potentially dangerous conditions so we’re asking the public to stay vigilant and not take unnecessary risks. If you plan to visit the coast or a waterside location, we urge you stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea.

"If you find yourself in trouble in the water, remember to Float to Live: Lie back in the water with your head so far back that your ears are wet, extend your arms and legs and try to relax as best as you can until you get control of your breathing before then calling for help or swimming to safety.

"If you see someone else in danger – do not enter the water yourself as you could also end up in serious difficulty. Instead, remember phone, float, throw – phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard; tell the struggling person to float; throw them something buoyant, like a life ring."