Snow hits Gauteng: How to protect your home from damage
Parts of Johannesburg have been hit by snow. Here are tips to help you protect your house.
Parts of the country have been hit by snow. It started in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal in the last week of July, and since then, snow has been spotted in Gauteng.
On Tuesday, 11 August, parts of Johannesburg were hit by snow as temperatures dropped significantly across the province. This came after the South African Weather Service (SAWS) earlier this week issued a safety warning as snow was expected in Johannesburg, Vereeniging and parts of the East Rand.
On Tuesday, Joburgers also took to social media to share pictures and videos of the snow.
While motorists have been urged to drive with caution, homeowners should also take precautions to ensure their homes are protected from potential damage.
Here are some things you can do to protect your home from snow and the cold weather:
Check for leaks
Check your roof, walls and ceilings for any cracks, gaps or openings where water could get into your home and damage your property.
Check the gutters
Check your gutters and ensure they are free from leaves, dirt and other debris that could prevent water from flowing properly.
Ensure proper room ventilation
While you may want to keep your home closed up to protect yourself from the cold, don’t block ventilation points. Make sure your home has adequate airflow and follow the safety instructions for any heating appliances you use.
Use electrical and gas appliances safely
Use heaters and other electrical or gas appliances according to the manufacturer’s instructions and never leave them unattended when they are switched on or place them where they can become a fire hazard.
Protect your geyser and outside taps
Protect your geyser and exposed outside taps from extremely cold temperatures by using suitable insulation, such as insulation kits or a geyser blanket.
Taking these precautions can help homeowners prepare for severe cold and minimise the risk of damage to their properties.
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