How To Protect Yourself In The Event Of A Tremor

In August 2014 many people were alarmed when an earthquake shook parts of Southern Africa – from the epicentre in Orkney, South Africa to as far as Mozambique and Botswana. Measuring 5 on the Richter scale, this was South Africa’s second largest earthquake (or tremor) since 1969.

The experts are anticipating more tremors, aftershocks and possibly another earthquake – and you may be wondering how to make sure you have adequate support in a shaky situation. Don’t worry; here at Nedbank Insurance we’ve got you covered. 

What to do before an earthquake occurs:

• Secure moveable items, such as bookcases, and identify potential dangers. Have you stored heavy objects on high shelves? How safe is your precious china in that rickety cupboard? Remove valuable paintings, artworks and other displays from your walls so that they don’t fall of the walls during the earthquake.
  
• Form a safety plan. If a tremor occurs, you may not have time to consider how to act. Pinpoint safe areas in each room of your house (where you’re protected from falling objects) and work out how you would safely exit the building afterwards.
  
• Protect yourself financially. Get your house in order – not only by strengthening your property but also by checking your insurance policy. The good news is that Nedbank’s Buildings Cover (also known as homeowner’s insurance) covers loss or damage to an insured property by an earthquake.
  

What to do during an earthquake:

• Keep calm. Easier said than done – but keeping a cool head is one of the best ways to protect yourself (and others) during a high-stress situation.
• Drop, cover and hold. This means dropping down, taking cover under a desk or table and holding on. If you are outside, move away from falling hazards, such as buildings and trees, preferably to an open area. If you’re driving, stop the vehicle when it’s safe but stay in the car until the shaking is over. 
  

What to do after an earthquake:

• Check yourself and others for injuries. Seek assistance if necessary. Only use telephones to report a life-threatening emergency, as most phone lines will be jammed. Rather opt for text messaging.
• Repair and rebuild. Moving on from an earthquake is easier when you are able to return to your daily routine as quickly as possible. Assess the damage to your property and contact Nedbank Insurance if you need to make a claim.
  

How to claim

Loss or damage to an insured property as a direct result of an earthquake or mining related tremor is covered by Nedbank’s Home Owners Cover. 

We’ve capped the excess at R2500, irrespective of the damage caused, so you can rest assured that fixing the damage to your property will remain affordable if you have a Nedbank Insurance policy. 

To lodge a claim, contact us on 0860 142 241 (all hours).