He added that volunteers are checking over vehicles and equipment, remaining ready to assist partner agencies and emergency services as and when the call comes. Harper also noted that the risks associated with severe weather should not be underestimated, particularly around rivers and areas prone to flooding, adding that whenever there is a storm, teams must be on standby for any trees that could come down over someone's driveway or their property.
While severe weather forces many people to stay indoors, response teams and local workers face long hours, dangerous conditions, and unpredictable calls for help. The Department for Infrastructure stated that its teams have been actively checking and clearing road gullies, monitoring river levels and tidal surges, and deploying a portion of temporary flood defences.
Tradespeople are similarly adjusting their schedules and supplies to meet the surge in demand. Howard explained that preparing for particularly bad weather usually involves stocking his van with spare roof tiles and clearing his schedule to deal with emergency calls.
For volunteer rescue groups, being on standby requires meticulous preparation ahead of time. Harper explained that preparations involve checking vehicles and equipment to ensure volunteers are ready for any call out.
An amber warning has been issued as Storm Austen threatens the UK with strong winds and heavy rain, prompting widespread preparations from emergency services, rescue volunteers, and tradespeople alike.