Winter risks loom for Namibian homeowners

With the winter months approaching, Namibians can expect drier and windier conditions, particularly in inland and coastal regions.

Franco Feris, CEO of Santam Namibia, said the seasonal changes could bring a range of weather-related risks that homeowners and motorists should not overlook.

"While many people associate winter in Namibia with dry and sunny weather, it is still important to be proactive before the season hits, to ensure you are financially protected against potential damage caused by adverse conditions," Feris said.

The winter months bring an array of risks to properties, vehicles and home contents, and not always the ones people expect. "People typically think of risks associated with dropping temperatures and water-related incidents in winter, but fires are among the biggest risks in Namibia," Feris said.

Winter is when drought impacts are most acutely felt in Namibia, and the country has experienced one of its worst droughts in a century over successive winters. In these dry conditions, the risk of fire increases significantly, raising the threat to both homes and vehicles.

Feris said simple preventative measures could go a long way in reducing risk. "Ensuring that properties are clear of dry vegetation, keeping fire extinguishers easily accessible, and reviewing insurance cover to confirm protection against fire-related damage are all important steps," he said.

Although most flooding occurs in summer, Feris said flooding could persist into late autumn and winter due to upstream rainfall in Angola and Zambia. Seasonal flooding in the Zambezi region has, in recent years, extended into June and July.

Feris said people should check the safety of building structures and vehicles ahead of wet weather and refresh their knowledge of safe driving on slippery roads. "If you're in an area that is vulnerable to flooding, precautionary measures such as checking your roof for leaks and clearing your gutters can go a long way in ensuring proper water drainage," he said.

Feris said that during cold snaps, especially in the south, there was also a risk of burst water pipes, which could cause significant damage to buildings and contents. "Cold fronts have recently produced night-time temperatures close to or below 0°C, sufficient to cause burst pipes under the right conditions," he said.

Feris recommended several steps to prevent burst pipes. He said letting water drip slowly from each tap stops freezing, preventing the build-up of ice that creates pressure and damages pipes.

He advised conducting regular maintenance to ensure plumbing and insulation are in order, and said thermal insulation of exposed pipes would significantly reduce the risk. For those away from home, he recommended draining all water from pipes by closing the main valve and opening each tap, preventing wasted water and electricity.

For homeowners responding to water damage, Feris said the first step was to turn off the main stopcock to stop water flowing into the house. He added that the main electrical supply should also be switched off, particularly if electrical sockets could be exposed to water.

While the risk of prolonged freezing conditions is lower in Namibia, Feris said homeowners could still take proactive steps to protect their property and contents. "By staying informed and prepared, homeowners can protect their properties and enjoy a safer, more comfortable winter season," he said.