The Met Office has issued a yellow weather alert for wind for Largs and Millport, and surrounding area valid from 0600 hours until 2200 hours on Wednesday 19 September.

Strong winds affecting parts of western Scotlandearly in the day will continue to strengthen through the morning and then extend across many parts of Scotland.

For some exposed areas, in particular parts of western Scotland, gusts could reach in excess of 75 mph in places.

The gusty winds will be accompanied in places by heavy, squally showers. The winds will gradually ease later on Wednesday.

A spokesman for the Coastguard said: "Our advice is to always avoid visiting exposed coastal areas during times of severe weather and to stay up to date with the latest forecasts.

"It's also essential that people Know Who To Call in an emergency at the coast - it's always dial 999 and ask for the Coastguard."

"Please stay 'Weather Aware' and don't put yourself at risk for the sake of a photo or video clip."

Craig Arthur, SP Energy Networks’ Distribution Director, gives his advice on what residents should do in the event of a power cut, as well as his top tips on preparing for an emergency power situation:

“Even though power cuts are rare events for most people, during times of high winds they become more likely, making it important for everybody to be prepared. We have a team of engineers on hand 24/7 who will fix any power outages but the sooner we know about it the quicker it can be resolved. You can report any power cuts to us by calling the new national emergency helpline 105 or SP Energy Networks emergency helpline 0800 092 9290.”

Craig Arthur’s top tips for being prepared in the event of a power outage are:

·         Have the new national 105 power cut helpline or the SP Energy Networks emergency helpline 0800 092 9290 number close to hand - it’s best to keep this on the fridge or saved in the contacts on your mobile phone. If you need to contact us, you have the number there and we can help you as soon as possible.

·         Store a battery powered torch – leave this somewhere you can access easily so that you can use the torch to check on the fuse box and make your way around the house safely.

·         Keep your mobile charged – having your mobile phone charged means that you can call immediately. Alternatively, if your mobile is out of signal, it’s worth having an analogue telephone as this doesn’t run off the main electricity supply.

·         Avoid excessively opening your fridge or freezer – your fridge and freezer should remain cold for a considerable amount of time when your power is off. However, it’s best to minimise the number of times you open the door.

·         Unplug powered equipment – make sure you unplug electrical appliances such as your TV, laptop, heaters, electric fires and cookers as you may forget about them when power is restored. 

·         Join the Priority Services Register – if electricity is crucial to your health (for example, if you use medical equipment at home) or you have a child aged five or under, ask to be included on our Priority Services Register by calling 0330 1010 167. If your power is off, we can make sure you are supported.

For more information on what to do in the event of a power emergency, visit spenergynetworks.co.uk. In the event of a power cut call the 105 emergency helpline or the SP Energy Networks 0800 092 9290 helpline to report the problem and receive help as soon possible.