AS STORM Barra prepares to hit the coast, Dorset fire service has outlined who you should call in any event relating to storm damage.

Christchurch has received a flood warning ahead of heavy rain and strong winds expected to be present throughout today.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Service urged residents to allow extra time for travel and to “know who to call” in the event of fallen trees, structuring faults and flooding.

As outlined:

  • Fallen tree on a road, not endangering life – Local authority
  • Fallen tree on a road, endangering life – Fire and Rescue Service – call 999
  • Fallen tree on own property, not endangering life – Personal responsibility
  • Fallen tree on own property, endangering life – Fire and Rescue Service – call 999
  • Unsafe structure overhanging a public highway – Fire and Rescue Service – call 999
  • Unsafe structure on own property, not endangering life – Personal responsibility
  • Unsafe structure overhanging own property, endangering life – Fire and Rescue Service – call 999
  • General flooding – Wait for water to subside. See also further advice.
  • Flooding with life risk – Fire and Rescue Service – call 999
  • Flooding affecting electrics – Only if safe to do so, isolate electrics. If in any doubt, contact the Fire and Rescue Service on 999

Local authority information is as follows:

  • BCP Council – call 01202 451629 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or 01202 451145 (evenings and weekends)
  • Dorset Council – call 01305 221020

Expected to hit the UK at 9am on Tuesday, related weather warnings for Storm Barra will remain in place until 6pm on Wednesday.