Stay safe this Christmas

IN THE words of an 1980s classic, it’s Christmas time – there’s no need to be afraid.

Or is there? The weather is forecast to be pretty wild over Christmas as Storm Barbara pays a visit along with Santa.

In fact, Prancer, Dancer, Donner, Blitzen and their mates might end up somewhere over Norway while trying to land on the lums of Knapdale if the weather forecasters are correct.

We are, though, getting pretty used to wild, mild and wet weather as a regular feature of our winters, so it remains to be seen whether Barbara is any more severe than Frank, Desmond or Gertrude were in years gone by.

Some wise men (and women) out there in cyberspace are advising people on the West Coast to cook the Christmas turkey by Saturday, when Babs arrives.

But, whatever you do, it will pay to take a few simple precautions to make sure any loose outdoor items are secured, knowing where the torch, candles and lighters are located in case of power cuts, and simply keeping warm.

There is, indeed, no need to be afraid as long as we are prepared.

It might just give us the opportunity to coorie in with a winter warmer and play a few board games with the family while Babs blows herself out. Or is that simply a recipe for more storms – of the domestic variety?

Whatever you get up to over Christmas, have fun and stay safe.

Happy Christmas from everyone at the Argyllshire Advertiser.