'Be prepared' - local Age Friendly group advise what essentials to have for Storm Éowyn

'Be prepared' are the wise words from Age Friendly Roscrea as they advised what essentials to have in the house for the fast approaching Storm Éowyn.

"Have torches ready, a head torch is good as your hands are free. Have spare batteries!" the group advised when they shared a photograph of what to have at hand if the electricity or water supplies are disrupted.

"Fill a flask if you have one. Have some food that is easy to prepare and can be eaten hot or cold. Bring in fuel and fill some bottles or pots with water", they advised.

"Check your yard or garden for items that might blow around. Ask for help if you need it and check on your older neighbours please", Age Friendly Roscrea said.

Storm Éowyn is anticipated to be an extraordinary event, with some historians pointing out the last time Ireland was battered by a similar event was Ireland's most serious natural disaster - Óiche na Gaoithe Mór, or Night of the Big Wind, which wrought destruction across Ireland and the UK on January 6th 1839.

Additional precautions to take during the storm: 

- Essential services will continue operating based on advice from Met Éireann 

- Prepare for power outages and ensure mobile phones are fully charged 

- Stay away from fallen live wires and report any issues to ESB Networks immediately 

For emergency assistance, contact the out-of-hours emergency number 0818 06 5003.

Additional emergency contact numbers include: 

- Emergency: 999/112 

- Irish Water Emergency: 1800 278 278 

- ESB Networks: 1800 372 999 

- Gas Networks Ireland: 1800 205 050 

The public is advised to stay safe and informed during this dangerous weather event. Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and visit their website for the most up-to-date information.