Weather the storm and protect your assets this winter
Stay safe
Winter 2012 hammered Europe, killing more than 100 people and
leaving thousands of others trapped in torrents of snow. Whether as
a result of global warming or cyclic variation, one thing can be
sure; the only predictable thing about winter this year is its
unpredictability.
However, the South African Weather Service has indicated the
likelihood that a colder than normal winter is expected for most
parts of South Africa.
"Last year Johannesburg experienced freezing temperatures and
even snow, while parts of the Western Cape saw severe flooding. The
best advice is to be prepared and take care of yourself, your loved
ones, and your belongings," says Attie Blaauw, head of personal
lines underwriting for Santam, South Africa's largest insurer.
Shorter days, longer nights, and a substantial drop in
temperatures are a sure warning that winter has set in, and no
matter where in the country you reside, precautions need to be
taken in order to mitigate the risks of the upcoming harsh
season.
"Preparation is important to help minimise the negative effects
of seasonal change on your property. Freezing temperatures and
heavy rains can cause severe damage to homes and roads but taking
some basic steps to be prepared can reduce the risks," says
Blaauw.
Santam says the public/policyholders can take practical steps to
mitigate potential damage with the following tips.
Take care of your home:
"A home owners insurance policy will cover your home and its
contents from damage caused by extreme weather conditions but it is
imperative that regular home maintenance is adhered to in order to
ensure a claim is paid out in a timely manner and in full,"
cautions Blaauw.
- As soon as temperatures hit zero degrees Celsius, which is not
uncommon in areas such as Gauteng and Northern Cape and Free State,
there is the possibility that water in the waterpipes can freeze.
This is especially true in homes with no insulation or if they are
located in an attic and the lower floors of the home are insulated.
As the water turns to ice it expands, and the increased pressure
can cause the waterpipes to burst, damaging the home and its
contents. If these aren't in an insulated part of the home and sub
zero temperatures are expected, insulate your waterpipes and
geyser, which also saves on the monthly electric bill.
- Keep up with roof maintenance and be aware of the strain it
takes as the temperatures vary considerably throughout the year.
Metal roofs sustain stress as temperature changes will cause them
to expand and contract, pulling at the screws that hold them
together. The home can experience damage when water from snow
and rain, as well as regular moisture in the air, collects under
the metal sheets.
- Keep gutters clear of debris so they can effectively remove
water from the roof, a build up of water can seep under the roof
and cause serious water damage to your home.
- Prevention is the cure; never leave a fire place or open flames
from stoves and candles unattended. Have chimneys and furnaces
maintained to ensure they are free of debris before lighting
up.
- The increased use in electrical appliances, from heaters to
electric blankets are electrical fire hazards so replace worn plugs
and cords, and take heed if a fuse or circuit trips continuously.
Do not leave these appliances on when you leave your
house.
- Some parts of the country face increased risk of flooding so
protect your home by installing a metal and rubber flaps at the
bottom of external doors to prevent water from seeping in during
heavy storms. .
In your car and on the
road:
Last winter motorists were stranded on roads and highways in the
eastern part of South Africa when the worst storm since 1992
reportedly dumped between two and five feet of snow from Lesotho to
Kwa-Zulu Natal. Already this year motorists were surprised by the
early snow fall that closed the mountain pass to Katse Dam in
Lesotho less than two months ago.
- Keeping an emergency kit all year round is a good idea, but
check it regularly and replace items as needed. Kits can be
purchased but ensure the bare minimum includes two roadside flares,
a quart of oil, small first aid kit, extra fuses, flashlight, a
multipurpose tool, tire inflator, rags, pocket knife, pen and
paper, and a help sign.
- If travelling long distance, keep enough food and fresh water
for each person in the car.
- Keep additional warm clothes and sleeping bags for each person
travelling in case of weather changes or if the car is stranded due
to poor road conditions, traffic issues, or any other unforeseen
circumstances.
- Damages to the windshield can severely restrict visibility at a
time when the driver's ability to see is already hampered by low
light and adverse weather conditions. Have cracks and chips fixed
immediately all year round, and especially at the start of winter.
Ensure wiper blades are in top working order, and get in the habit
of topping up on fluids such as radiator, oil and wiper fluid, when
stopping for petrol.
- Check tyre tread regularly for wear.
- The car battery works overtime in cold weather conditions so
don't chance a long trip unless the battery is in top shape or has
been replaced. Have the battery tested at a battery centre if
you are unsure.
- Fog, rain, snow, and earlier sunsets mean poor visibility more
often in winter. Drive with your lights on to increase visibility
to other road users, even during daylight hours.
- As a vigilant driver be aware that heavy rains in the Western
Cape over winter can cause increased debris in the road, potholes,
and storm water runoff. Be aware of the road around you and check
traffic updates regularly before setting out.
"It's important to review insurance policies regularly to ensure
that you are covered for every eventuality and not underinsured.
Santam has an emergency call centre in place where clients can
report a claim, hassle free," continues Blaauw. "Santam policy
holders needing to claim for damage or loss should contact our
multi-SOS line on 0860 505 911."
