The rains are here again in Accra. Being a country located in the tropics, there are two main weather seasons – the wet and the dry. The coastal region experiences extreme rainfall in June and September.

A home is one of the most important investments that you can ever make, therefore the need to protect them with special care during this rainy period. How do you protect your property against the floods and any other danger that may cause you to lose this important investment you have made? What precautionary measures should you put in place to keep your house safe? Here are a few tips you should keep in mind.

1.      Repair your roof

The roof of your house is one of the most important parts you should check. If the roof is leaking, ensure it is fixed before the rains start. Look out for cracks or broken tiles on the roof or in the ridges.

2.       Check your electrical fittings

Leaked roofs with bad electrical fittings may lead to a fire outbreak in your home.  To reduce electric shocks and fire outbreaks this season, ensure the electrical fittings in your homes are functioning properly. When it is raining and you are at home, it is safe to unplug all high-voltage devices to prevent any fire outbreak when the lightning strike. When you are leaving your home and there are visible signs of a storm, ensure all your electrical appliances are turned off as well.

3.      Fix broken ceilings and windows

Ensure that your windows and roofs are not broken during the rainy season. If there are any leaks, ensure you seal them. If it is a job that is difficult for you to do yourself, seek the services of a professional. You can also apply a fresh coat of paint to prevent mould.

4.       Gutters

The cause of floods in most of the neighbourhoods in Accra is choked gutters and culverts. It is important to clean the gutters to allow the water to run in your drainage system. Cleaning the drainage will also prevent pools of water from forming near your home. Pools of water also encourage the breeding of mosquitoes, which may increase the risk of malaria infection. If there are any bushes growing around your house, clear them to prevent reptiles from invading your property.

5.       Furniture and flooring

If your furniture or floor is made of wood, make sure they are protected, especially in the rainy season. Rainwater on the furniture is likely to cause mould. Move furniture away from the windows to prevent the rainwater from damaging them. Fix the floor if your wooden floor is old and leaking.

Are there any ways to protect your home in this season that we have not mentioned in the list above? Share them with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.