With the country’s electricity network currently taking heavy strain, load shedding will continue to be a reality for South Africans. Did you know that load shedding doesn’t just affect you, but some of your personal possessions as well? You are probably taking comfort in your insurance policy to cover any loss and damages; however, you may find that you are not adequately covered for load shedding related risks.
Power surges
Power surges are caused by a spike in the electrical current when electricity is suddenly restored to the power lines. This may lead to serious damage such as short-circuit or malfunction in electronic equipment. Devices like your computer, fridge and television are especially vulnerable. The best way to avoid this is to unplug all electronic appliances before a blackout is due and switch them back on after the power supply returns.
Burglary and theft
Load shedding exposes your property to the possibility of burglary and theft– whether you’re home or not. Criminals can move about unseen in the dark and can easily gain access to your house when your electronic security measures such as the alarm system and electric fence are down. If you don’t want to walk in on an empty TV cabinet where your huge plasma once stood, then it’s wise to have alternative safety measures in place.
Road accidents
When travelling during a power outage, you’re bound to come across traffic lights that are out. Unfortunately, traffic officials cannot always substitute for traffic lights during load shedding so motorists have to take charge at intersections. Now, we know that many people are so eager to get home after a hard day’s work that they sometimes disregard the four way stop rule. This puts you at risk of a collision that can cause minor to severe damage to your vehicle and your possessions inside it. When load shedding occurs at night, street lights are also out. While you can still rely on your car’s headlights to navigate your way home, the lack of adequate light reduces your vision. Not being able to clearly see road signs, potholes and pedestrians can harm your vehicle or others.
Spoiling food supplies
Everything in your fridge has an expiry date which is accelerated when a power outage strikes. Imagine having to dispose of that salmon you were intending to serve at next week’s dinner party. Consuming spoiled food can have serious health consequences for you and your family. That’s why you should always try to keep your food fresh during the period of load shedding. A good thing to do is to keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain the right temperature inside, expanding the life of all perishable products.
If you feel as though some of your possessions might be at risk, and you’re not already covered, Give us a call on 0861 696 999 or send us a whatsapp on 072 930 2743 for a consultant to call you back