“Most people consider wind to be an inconvenience at best, but it can cause great damage to your house, garden and vehicle and even have deadly consequences.”
Strong winds frequently change in direction and intensity and can exploit weak spots in and around your house very easily. According to the AA, motorists should also always be alert for sudden gusts of wind, as it can catch even the most experienced drivers off-guard.
Virseker offers the following handy tips to keep yourself safe at home and on the road when August winds hit:
Around your house:
- Roof: Strong winds can easily transform loose panels, tiles, devices mounted on the roof, rusty gutters and shade netting into dangerous falling objects. Make double sure that all of these are properly affixed.
- Roof supports: Old supports are especially prone to giving way, so make sure that all pillars, poles and beams are sturdy. Don’t forget about your lapa or shed!
- Walls: porous or cracked walls can be pushed over by the wind and cause serious damage and/or injuries. Inspect all walls in and around your house and be on the lookout for deep cracks. Perform the necessary repairs as soon as possible.
- Plants: Especially old, heavy branches are a great danger – a gust of wind can easily break it and cause injury or damage to your home, electric fence or vehicle. Make sure that all trees and other plants are adequately trimmed.
- Fires: Wind and fire are a deadly combination. Be extremely careful when you make a fire, or when there’s a fire close to you on a windy day. Be wary of any embers that can be picked up by the wind and cause a fire elsewhere.
- Windows: Even a slight breeze can cause your curtains to topple precious ornaments, so make sure that all windows are in a good condition and close properly. If your area is frequently hit by strong winds, consider installing blinds that are designed to help protect against it.
On the road:
- Know the danger areas: There are places where the risk of strong winds is higher. Be especially alert when driving on long, open roads, over a bridge or past gaps between buildings.
- Overcompensation: One is prone to counter steer against the wind. A large approaching vehicle can briefly block the wind and cause you to land up in the way of oncoming traffic.
- A firm grip: A strong gust of wind can throw you completely off course, so rather reduce speed and keep both hands on the steering wheel.
- Trailers and caravans: Be sure to make use of vehicle that is heavy and strong enough for the load it must carry or tow. Also be cautious about how you load your trailer or caravan – if it’s top heavy it will be extremely difficult to control in a strong wind.
- Accessories: Remember to have a stabiliser installed for your trailer or caravan just for that extra peace of mind when towing on windy days.
- Loads: Make sure that any load is properly fastened. A sail flapping in the wind can also easily be plucked off and potentially hamper the view of other motorists.
- Obstacles: Be on the lookout for uprooted trees, branches and other objects lying in the road, especially when driving at night.
- Cigarette butts: Runaway fires are synonymous with high winds, so be especially cautious with cigarette butts or matches.
Follow these simple tips and you’ll already be better prepared for the windy month of August. “These unforeseen troubles are exactly the reason why one should have insurance,” says Twilley. “Make sure to check the small print and make double sure that your house, home contents, vehicle and caravan are properly insured against this type of disaster.”
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