Western Cape weather chaos: Are you physically and financially prepared for the aftermath of a disaster
The Western Cape recently struggled with a heavy bout of extreme weather from gale-force winds to fires, and from heavy rains to flooding, authorities issued high-level alerts and ended up closing down numerous roads and schools. Millions of rands of damage was wrought leaving many homes, vehicles, and infrastructure in disrepair.
As South Africans grapple with these extreme conditions, Funeka Ngewu, Executive Head of Claims & Claims Support at Momentum Insure says it is essential to prioritise safety and be prepared for emergencies, which includes knowing the role insurance can play in picking up the pieces.
“South Africans are famously underinsured, so most of us are never quite prepared for the unexpected,” says Ngewu. “Of course, making sure your loved ones are safe is priority one, but that safety and security can be bolstered by the right cover.”
In the face of imminent danger, prioritising personal safety is paramount. Ngewu has provided essential tips for weathering the storm:
• Create a Go-Bag: Prepare an emergency bag with all the essential items you need like medication, documents, and sentimental belongings to help you get out of danger quicker.
• Stock Emergency Supplies: Ensure you have enough food, water, and toiletries to sustain your family for at least a week.
• Arrange Backup Power: With potential electricity outages, have alternative power sources ready and fully charged.
• Stay Informed about Road Conditions: Avoid flooded areas if driving and seek immediate assistance if your vehicle becomes immersed.
• Assist Vulnerable Individuals: Extend help to vulnerable family members or neighbours who may need additional support.
• Inspect Your Property: Eliminate potential hazards like overhanging branches or loose debris to prevent storm damage.
• Maintain Roof and Gutters: Regularly check for blockages or damages to your roof and gutters to avoid further problems.
• Secure Holiday Homes: If you own a holiday property, ensure it's inspected and secured against potential damage.
• Learn from Past Experiences: If you've faced similar weather events before, use your experience to take additional precautions.
• Stay Connected: Make sure your devices are charged and stocked with enough data and airtime to reach out for help if need be.
Leveraging Insurance for Recovery
Despite the best preparations, emergencies can still result in damages and losses. This is where Ngewu believes insurance becomes invaluable. “There is no better time than now to review your policy schedule for applicable limits and understanding your coverage, which is something you won’t have time for in an emergency and it will likely be too late.”
Here’s how Ngewu says insurance can aid in recovery:
Emergency Repairs: Immediate repairs may be necessary to mitigate further losses. Your insurance policy can cover these repairs, but it's crucial to approve them promptly and refer to your policy schedule to review applicable limits. It’s a good idea to check with your insurer what the emergency repairs approval process is.
Property Damage: Whether it's damage to your home or belongings, insurance can help cover the costs of repair or replacement.
Temporary Accommodation: If your home becomes uninhabitable due to the weather, insurance can provide coverage for temporary accommodation expenses.
As Western Cape Premier Alan Winde urges citizens to avoid risky areas and reports on damages across the province increase, Ngewu says it's a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of being adequately prepared.
“We need to prioritise safety measures and understand the importance of being adequately covered. We know we are not free from natural disasters, so it pays to navigate through emergencies with resilience and assurance of recovery. Stay safe, stay insured, and together, we can weather any storm.”
