Going somewhere, are you?
If you will be travelling, here are some pointers to remember:
- Obey the rules of the road & carry your driver’s license.
- Plan the route to your destination and allow yourself enough time to reach the destination.
- Make sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition before departure. All lights and indicators, windscreens, wipers, brakes, steering, shock absorbers, exhaust system and tires should be carefully examined for faults.
- Try to avoid driving after dark if possible.
- Have a good rest before you embark on your journey.
- Save your Insurers Road Assistance number or at least your Brokers.
Learn from “Home Alone” and plan for your home’s safety
If you will be travelling and leaving your home alone, there is a lot you can do to better secure your home before you leave. Don’t forget that crime increases this time of year, and an empty house makes for an easy target. If you can, get a house sitter. If not, be sure to leave outside lights on and one or two in the house too. Where possible, at least get a friend, family member or neighbor to check on the home, open & close curtains and remove post from post boxes (to appear as though someone’s home). Don’t tell the world your travel plans on social media until you return. Criminal’s plan and are know to ‘track targets’ in many ways.
Do you smell Fire!
Over the festive season, the lights can be so beautiful to see but be careful about leaving them on for days on end. Christmas lights are a big cause of houses fires globally and this can be avoided by:
- Turning off lights when you go to sleep
- Turning off lights when you leave home (short to long term trips)
- Limiting the number of extension cords used. The more extensions chords, the higher the risk of electrical fire.
- In addition, if you are putting lights up outside, be sure to use water resistance extension cables and plugs.
- Water your Christmas trees. When they are not watered, they dry up, making them more likely to burn well.
It’s Phish-mas time
We can purchase gifts online, anytime we want, from the comfort of our homes. Thank you, internet. However, this comes with its own set of risks, namely, Cyber-Crimes. These cyber-criminals create illegitimate websites, run false specials, and send out phishing emails… hoping some unsuspecting people fall for their scams. Be cautious of strange emails, newsletters you’ve never subscribed to and specials that may seem too good to be true. If you see such offers, google the stores to call in and verify if it is legitimate before you proceed. Because of online shopping, there is lots of your personal information at risk, especially when using your credit card.
Oooh, Shiny!
We all can appreciate shiny things. Especially when it’s a Christmas gift from loved ones. If you buy or receive expensive gifts this Christmas time, you may need to consider whether this is insured (even if for a short period). Bought a new X-Box to put under the tree? How about some new sporting gear? An new Xbox alone can increase the insured value of your house contents by R10 000 or more. What about items such as jewelry or watches? Be careful not to be “Under Insured” over this time of the year. Travelling with gifts for others? If so, and the gifts are expensive when considered all together, then you may need to have some “All Risks” cover put in place. Speak to your Broker before you close down for the Holidays.
Don’t Drink (Nog) and Drive
This shouldn’t have to be said but always needs to be. With the likes of Uber and Bolt, there can always be a simple plan for a safe ride home if you’re going to be enjoying any alcoholic beverages. Never start the engine unless you are 100% sober, and that includes any drowsing medications or cannabis products (also have to say that these days). If you qualify, some insurance companies will pay for your (and your vehicle) to be collected and driven home safely when needed. If you have this benefit, do make use of it. If you are not sure, contact your Broker and ask.
