Storm Dave Set to Batter UK with 70mph Winds Over Easter Weekend
Brits have been issued an urgent garden warning as Storm Dave prepares to unleash winds of up to 70mph across the UK this Easter weekend. The Met Office has activated multiple yellow weather warnings for wind, forecasting that the storm will "rapidly deepen" as it moves in from the west on Saturday afternoon, April 4th. This severe weather event poses significant risks to outdoor property, prompting safety experts to highlight critical precautions for homeowners.
Trampolines Identified as High-Risk Projectiles in Storm Conditions
Children's toy specialists at outdoortoys have cautioned that garden trampolines are particularly vulnerable during storms, capable of becoming dangerous airborne projectiles in winds as low as 40mph. Without proper anchoring, these structures can topple over, hurtle across gardens, and cause extensive damage to sheds, cars, fences, and even infrastructure like roads or railway tracks. Alex Price, product manager at outdoortoys, explained: "People are often surprised by just how little wind it can take to move a trampoline. Once wind speeds exceed 40–50 mph, unsecured trampolines can begin to lift, especially if they act like sails and catch strong gusts."
Price emphasised that sudden gusts, rather than steady wind, are typically the culprit, as they can generate enough lift to propel trampolines over fences and into neighbouring properties. This warning follows a recent incident shared on TikTok by a mum using the handle @motherhoodandmegs, whose trampoline vanished during a UK storm just three days ago. She recounted: "My daughter was devastated thinking someone had stolen it! The worst thing is, it landed in some poor old lady's garden."
Expert Recommendations for Securing Garden Equipment
With wild weather imminent, outdoortoys has compiled essential tips to safeguard garden equipment. These measures are designed to prevent unexpected "take-offs" and ensure community safety during the storm.
Secure Your Equipment to the Ground- Use ground anchor kits, which screw into the earth and fasten to frames with straps, for reliable stability.
- Employ DIY alternatives if anchors are unavailable: heavy-duty tent pegs, dog tie-out stakes, or sturdy rope tied to fence posts, decking supports, or trees.
- Position trampolines, swings, and climbing frames near fences, hedges, sheds, or walls to act as windbreaks.
- If relocation isn't feasible, tip trampolines on their side and lay them flat against a fence (where safe) to reduce wind exposure.
- Move lighter plastic play equipment into garages, sheds, or closer to the house.
- Temporarily dismantle safety nets, as they can function like sails in high winds, increasing lift risk.
- If removal isn't possible, lower net poles or use robust ties or bungee cords to fasten netting firmly to the frame.
- Check anchor points after heavy rain, as soft ground can reduce stability; tighten straps and push stakes deeper if needed.
- Add paving slabs or sandbags around trampoline legs for extra stability.
- Secure loose accessories like ladders, weather covers, swing seats, and toys with bungee cords, zip ties, or heavy-duty rope to prevent them from flying away.
These proactive steps can help mitigate the dangers posed by Storm Dave, ensuring that gardens remain safe and damage-free during this turbulent Easter period. Homeowners are encouraged to act swiftly to protect their property and prevent accidents as the storm approaches.
