While most people are preparing to stay indoors as another storm approaches, others are getting ready to head straight into it. Storm Boelo is expected to bring strong winds and disruption to parts of Northern Ireland this weekend. For those tasked with keeping people safe and dealing with the damage, severe weather can bring long hours, dangerous conditions and calls for help at any moment.
In preparation for the storm, the Department for Infrastructure said their teams have been checking and clearing road gullies, monitoring river levels and tidal surges, and deploying a portion of temporary flood defences. "Regional Community Resilience Groups have also been advised of weather patterns and to make appropriate preparations," a spokesperson said. From rescue volunteers to tradespeople, being on standby means preparing for situations they cannot always predict.
With equipment checked and vehicles ready, they are prepared to respond whenever their help is needed. Darren Harper is the Belfast area commander for the Community Rescue Service, whose volunteers are preparing to respond to emergencies. He said severe weather can bring heavy rainfall, rising water levels and flooding, with volunteers placed on standby to respond if needed.
"Our main concern is the safety of the public," he said. Harper explained that preparations involve checking vehicles and equipment to ensure volunteers are ready for any call out. "Being on standby, our volunteers are ready to mobilise at a short notice," he said.
"They're checking over vehicles, checking over equipment and they're ready to assist their partner agencies and emergency services as and when the call comes." He said the risks associated with severe weather should not be underestimated, particularly around rivers and areas prone to flooding. "Take weather warnings seriously, avoid flooded roads and paths. Stay away from swollen rivers and never put yourself at risk by entering any flood water," he said.
"Don't underestimate the weather - and stay away from riverbanks," he added. Harper said taking simple precautions could prevent people from getting into dangerous situations. For roofer Charles Howard, storms can bring an overwhelming number of calls from people needing emergency repairs.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
