Winter gale storms to hit the Western Cape - Tips to flood-proof your home during the rainy season

Local weather reports indicate gale force winds and torrential downpours throughout the Western Cape over the next few days with these adverse weather conditions expected to move further afield into the Eastern Cape. It is expected that the disruptive weather will play havoc across the country, and in addition Gauteng residents have been warned that they could also experience heavy rainfalls as well.

Against the background of expected water floods, South Africa’s leading short-term insurance company, Santam, has issued an urgent advisor to all South Africans to take pro-active steps to limit potential rain damage to properties and practical advice on how to take preventative measures over the next few weeks.

Johan Pieters, Western Cape regional manager for claims and assessor services at Santam says the steps outlined below aimed at preventing flood damage are simple and cost effective and could ensure limited or no damage if your area is affected by heavy rains.

“Follow these six easy steps to prevent water from entering your home and damaging your household contents:

• Make sure drains are clear of roots, leaves, twigs and any other objects. A slow drain might indicate that more frequent cleanings are needed. Therefore keep the drain clean for a quicker release of water.
• Clean out gutters and downspouts so as to release the built-up water. Make sure downspouts extend at least one meter away from the outside wall of the house.
• Check for cracks in the foundation, chimney or fireplace. If you do find cracks, consult an expert as soon as possible.
• In low lying areas ensure that appliances, furniture and other items are elevated, or build a flood wall around appliances.
• Electric current passes easily through water, so stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Electrocution is a major source of deaths during floods.
• Report any animal carcasses, rats, dangerous chemicals or similar hazardous materials on your property as these pose serious health risks.
• In the case of damaged roof tiles consider filling plastic shopping bags with sand to keep the tiles down until a professional service provider can repair the damage.
• Also use filled shopping bags as weights to keep plastic garden furniture firm on the ground or alternatively tie these down.”

Pieters, continues, “When out on the road, remember that flooded streets may hide areas of washed-out road. Water levels are often much deeper than it appears so do take caution in these areas. Also be aware that moving water, even if it is only a half a meter deep, is strong enough to sweep away cars, so don’t attempt to drive through flooded areas. If your car stalls, abandon it and move to higher ground as soon as you can – during flood periods the potential risk of drowning in cars increases dramatically.”

Following the period of heightened water levels check your ceilings for signs of sagging as this is an indication that water has accumulated and could potentially burst through - causing damage to your other assets such as furniture, carpets, white goods and internal walls.

To assist policyholders after a natural disaster, Santam has also put its two mobile claim units on high alert so these can be dispatched to flood areas as soon as calls are received. The units are run by Santam employees who are able to offer advice and provide assistance on the scene to policyholders affected by the floods. The units are linked to Santam’s national network so claims could be lodged on the site.

Pieters concludes, “Should you live in an area which is susceptible to flooding, ensure you have a torch with fully-charged batteries, a first aid kit, a battery-operated radio and drinking water for you and your family.”