South Africans know to expect a lingering chill in the air and powerful winds sweeping across the country as August arrives. Signalling more than just the last days of winter, these winds are a reminder that our homes, cars and personal safety are susceptible to the whims of nature. A shift in weather patterns can bring with them flying debris, power surges and a heightened risk of unexpected accidents.
“The question shouldn’t just be what can go wrong but how prepared you are in the event that something does go wrong.” says Funeka Ngewu, Executive Head of Claims and Procurement at Momentum Insure. This is where proactive preparation and the right insurance cover come into play, acting as the two most powerful safeguards against the unexpected.
For homeowners, August’s high winds risk loosening roof tiles, damaging gutters, and falling tree branches. A strong gust of wind can turn a harmless patio chair into a projectile, a power surge can fry expensive electronics, and a simple tree branch can smash a window.
The risks are equally real for car owners. Debris flying across the road can cause damage to vehicles, while a sudden, strong gust can make driving difficult and even dangerous, leading to accidents. Even when parked, cars are not safe from falling objects or the unexpected impact of a flying wheelie bin.
In preparation for the upcoming windy season, Ngewu says to take some time to secure your assets. Here are some suggestions to get you started:
• Secure any loose items. This can include tidying up your garden and patio, and storing away loose furniture, trampolines, children’s toys and garden tools that could become airborne.
• Inspect your property for anything that could pose a risk to your home or car. Check your roof for loose tiles, gutters and downpipes for blockages and trim any overhanging tree branches that could pose a risk.
• Consider installing a surge protector on your main electrical board or use surge-protection plugs for sensitive electronics to protect against power surges.
• Check your car’s windscreen for any chips as these can turn into large cracks with a sudden temperature change or impact from debris.
• Drive cautiously and be aware of crosswinds, especially when driving on open roads or over bridges. Reduce driving speed to maintain better control.
• Where possible, park your car in a garage or away from large trees or structures that could be damaged by wind.
“While taking proactive steps can significantly reduce risks, it’s not always possible to control everything nature throws our way. This is where insurance becomes a critical safety net. It’s not just a document; it’s an assurance of support when you need it most,” says Ngewu.
“A comprehensive insurance policy can cover the costs of repairing your roof, replacing a shattered window, or fixing the damage to your vehicle from a weather-related incident. At Momentum Insure, we understand that a claim isn’t just a transaction; it’s a moment of vulnerability. We aim to make the process seamless and stress-free, getting you back on your feet as quickly as possible,” she says.
August is a good time to review your insurance policy. Are your home contents insured for their full replacement value? Do you have adequate cover for damage caused by power surges?
“Don’t wait for a gust of wind to reveal a gap in your cover. Speak to your insurance provider and make sure you understand exactly what your policy covers and, more importantly, what it doesn’t. When you have the right cover in place, you can confidently face whatever the season blows your way,” concludes Ngewu.
