Households across Scotland are at serious risk of weather damage following gale force winds.

More than 70,000 homes were without power after wind turbines caught fire from the sheer pressure of the winds. With gusts of 100mph across Ayrshire on Thursday, many schools, businesses and councils were forced to close.

There were also significant disruptions to travel services and the stormy weather brought down trees, closed roads and knocked out power lines.

Homeowners are being urged to prepare for the harsh winter weather. The Association of British Insurers claims that insurers need to react quickly to help policyholders who’ve experienced damage to their homes following the storm.

Nick Starling, ABI’s Director of General Insurance, said; “Insurers expect bad weather to strike and are geared up to dealing with claims for storm damage. Their number one priority is to ensure that anyone who suffers damage gets their claim dealt with as quickly as possible.”

Some 150,000 homes were thought to have lost power at some point during the day. The storms caused trouble across the Highlands, Moray, North Aberdeenshire and Orkney.

No one has been injured, however, some families in Aberdeen have been evacuated after the gable end of one house collapsed onto a car.

If you are concerned about your property, here are some top tips for home protection against stormy weather:

1. Lock away any valuables and loose objects around the home and garden.
2. Ensure that all windows and doors are closed properly.
3. Park your car in the garage, if you have one.
4. Check for loose roof tiles and broken fences
5. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible for advice and to get a claim in action.

It is advisable to check what you are covered for as some home insurance policies vary significantly. For example, fences, gates and moveable property might not be covered.