Be prepared ahead of severe weather

Christelle Colman, spokesperson for Old Mutual Insure

Old Mutual Insure is warning South Africans to be extra vigilant and take precautions given the prediction of severe weather in parts of the Western Cape today. The South African Weather service has issued alerts to warn citizens that conditions include strong wind, heavy rain and possible localised flooding.

“We are fortunate that in today’s times authorities can give us ample warning ahead of dangerous weather conditions. We urge all South Africans to conduct comprehensive maintenance checks on their vehicles as well as their homes ahead of the storm if it has not been a recent priority, which can help minimise the opportunity for something to go wrong,” says Christelle Colman, spokesperson for Old Mutual Insure.

The SA weather service says that rain can cause disruption and homes, roads and businesses are likely to be flooded, causing damage to infrastructure.

Colman says that all homeowners and vehicle drivers should conduct a thorough risk-management checklist to mitigate damage to possessions ahead of the expected storm.

“Checking tires before driving in wet weather is also extremely important. It could result in an insurance claim being rejected should the insurer determine that the cause of an accident was a direct result of poor tyre maintenance.”

Another check is to know exactly where your house’s shut-off valves are for the main water supply, should water damage occur.

“Check your gutters and drainpipes to avoid leaves and other debris from clogging them up and damaging your home’s exterior siding. Also unplug all electronic devices, including cell phones, laptops and Wi-Fi routers to prevent serious damage to these devices should you experience lightning.”

Colman also suggests that you have emergency home assistance in place and have emergency numbers on speed dial in case off an incident at home, such as flooding, or a tree falling on the roof. Home assistance services can add tremendous value during storm periods to homeowners who experience any type of emergency. If you cannot avoid being on the road during predicted storms, check that you have emergency driver assistance in place and have emergency numbers on hand in case of an accident or breakdown – especially as rainy weather increases motorists’ chances of incidents.

“The only option when storms are upon is for home and vehicle owners to be proactive, which can lower the possibility of damage to their belongings as a result of extreme weather conditions,” concludes Colman.