The clocks have now changed and so too will the weather.  To help prepare you for winter we have put together a checklist to help you survive the worst that the Mugla weather has to throw at you.

We have put together a checklist to help you survive the worst that the Mugla weather has to throw at you this autumn/winter.

Personal Safety

- Look after yourself when out and about - get a good set of waterproofs and boots to keep out the rain.

- Watch out for slippery surfaces - marble steps and shop floors that are cool and attractive in the summer can be very slippery when wet.

- During a severe storm don't travel unless your journey is absolutely necessary. Roads will be slippery and there's always the risk of landslides or other hazards. On high roads there is also the possibility of snow and ice.

- Check that you have torches available with working batteries and buy an emergency light for strategic areas in your house. The latter plug into the mains and come on automatically when the power goes off. They are available from most supermarkets for around 20 TL.

- Check you have candles and matches as backup lighting as well.

- Ensure you have enough fuel to provide heating just in case you aren't able to get out to buy more. An alternative to electrical heating is essential if there is a power cut.

- Check you have the phone numbers for emergency services in case you are flooded or suffer damage in or around your home  e.g. Fallen trees or downed power lines.

- If you have a generator check that you have spare supplies of fuel and power-up the machine from time to time to check that  it’s ready to use.

Property

- Check your roof tiles - replace missing, loose or broken tiles and fix leaks before they ruin walls, floors or furniture.

- Check the security of solar water systems so they can withstand strong winds.

- Check outside storm drains in and around your property and clear any debris.

- Check guttering for leaks and blockages.

- Check windows and doors are secure and weatherproof. Re-apply silicone sealant if it has gone hard or cracked.

- Patch peeling paint on walls to stop the ingress of water and to prevent further damage to the paint.

- Pack away those summer things such as garden furniture, sunbeds and cushions before they fall victim to strong winds and heavy rain.

- Check that trees in your vicinity do not have branches overhanging or touching power lines - ask the local council to cut back branches that could bring down power lines in a storm.

Sensitive Electricals

- When thunder storms occur unplug any sensitive electrical equipment such as computers and modems to prevent possible electrical surge damage.

Neighbours

- Finally give a thought to elderly or infirm neighbours during severe stormy weather - call in and see if they are ok.