Do it RITE, and do it now. Prepare for Bad Weather

New Zealand's diverse climate means that bad weather can strike at any time, from heavy rain and flooding to strong winds and even cyclones. Preparing your home and business for such conditions is crucial to minimise damage and ensure the safety of everyone involved. This comprehensive guide prepared by the team at The Handyman Group will help you understand the steps you can take to protect your property and loved ones in the face of adverse weather conditions.

Understanding New Zealand’s Weather Patterns

New Zealand's weather is influenced by its location in the South Pacific Ocean, its mountainous terrain, and its latitude, which places it in the path of prevailing westerly winds. Key weather patterns include:

1. Heavy Rain and Flooding: Common in many parts of the country, especially in the west of the South Island and along the east coast of the North Island.
2. Strong Winds: Often experienced in Wellington and other coastal regions.
3. Cyclones: While less common, cyclones can bring severe weather, particularly in the east coast of the North Island.
4. Snow and Frost: Regularly affect the South Island and the central plateau region of the North Island.

Preparing Your Home for Bad Weather

1. Roof Maintenance

   • Regular Inspections: Check for loose or missing tiles, leaks, and structural damage.
   • Gutter Cleaning: Ensure gutters are clear of debris to prevent water overflow.
   • Secure Loose Items: Fasten down anything that could be blown away by strong winds, such as deck umbrellas and shade sail's

2. Windows and Doors

   • Seal Cracks: Use weatherstripping and caulking to seal any gaps.
   • Storm Shutters: Consider installing roller shutters or boarding up windows in extreme cases.
   • Reinforce Doors: Install strong hinges and locks to prevent wind from forcing doors open.

3. Yard and Garden

   • Trim Trees: Cut back any branches that could fall on your house or power lines. If your concerned about how close the branch is to power lines call your lines company.
   • Secure Outdoor Furniture: Anchor down or store away items like patio furniture and garden tools, hundreds of trampolines are reported to be blown away annually in New Zealand and these can become dangerous when airborne.
   • Drainage: Ensure that your yard has proper drainage to prevent flooding. Also ensure your street gutters are free from debris. 

4. Electrical Systems

   • Surge Protectors: Use surge protectors to safeguard your appliances.
   • Backup Generator: Have a generator and fuel ready in case of power outages.
   • Check Wiring: Ensure your electrical system is up to code and can handle heavy loads.

5. Plumbing

   • Insulate Pipes: Prevent pipes from freezing in colder regions by insulating them.
   • Shutoff Valves: Know the location of your water shutoff valves in case of a burst pipe.
   • If you on tank water ensure your generator is powerful enough to run your tanks pump if power is disconnected. 

6. Emergency Supplies

   • Stock Up: Keep a supply of non-perishable food, water, and essential medications.
   • First Aid Kit: Have a well-stocked first aid kit ready.
   • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers.

Preparing Your Business for Bad Weather

1. Building Safety

   • Structural Integrity: Regularly inspect the building for signs of wear and tear.
   • Secure Roof and Windows: Similar to home preparation, ensure the roof and windows are secure.
   • Flood Barriers: Consider installing flood barriers or sandbags if your business is in a flood-prone area.

2. Protecting Equipment

   • Data Backup: Regularly back up important data and store it offsite or in the cloud.
   • Elevate Equipment: Keep essential equipment off the ground to avoid water damage.
   • Power Protection: Use surge protectors and have a backup power supply.

3. Employee Safety

   • Emergency Plan: Develop and communicate an emergency response plan.
   • Training: Regularly train employees on emergency procedures.
   • First Aid Supplies: Ensure first aid kits are accessible and well-stocked.

4. Business Continuity

   • Insurance: Review your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage.
   • Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan to keep employees and customers informed.
   • Remote Work: Have a plan for employees to work remotely if necessary.

Specific Weather Preparation Tips

Preparing for Heavy Rain and Flooding

• Flood-Prone Areas: Elevate important items and install sump pumps if your in a flood prone area.
• Sandbags: Use sandbags to create barriers around entry points.
• Drainage Systems: Regularly clean and maintain drainage systems around your property.

Preparing for Strong Winds

• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or tie down loose outdoor items.
• Reinforce Structures: Strengthen fences, sheds, and other structures.
• Window Protection: Use storm shutters or board up windows.

Preparing for Cyclones

• Evacuation Plan: Have a clear evacuation plan and know the local evacuation routes.
• Emergency Kit: Ensure your emergency kit is well-stocked and easily accessible.
• Safe Room: Identify a safe room in your house or business where you can take shelter.

Preparing for Heavy Snow

• Insulate Pipes: Prevent pipes from freezing by insulating them.
• Clear Pathways: Keep driveways and walkways clear of snow and ice.
• Heating Systems: Ensure your heating systems are functioning properly and ensure you have enough fuel to last twice as long as the bad weather is forecasted for. 

Community and Neighbourhood Initiatives

• Neighbourhood Watch: Organise a neighbourhood watch to help each other during emergencies.
• Community Resources: Utilise community centres as shelters or resource hubs.
• Local Authorities: Stay informed through local authorities and follow their guidance. Civil defence should be your first point of reference in any weather event. 

Long-Term Resilience Building

• Sustainable Practices: Incorporate sustainable building practices that withstand adverse weather.
• Resilient Landscaping: Use plants and landscaping techniques that reduce the impact of heavy rains and winds.
• Climate Adaptation: Adapt to changing climate patterns by updating building codes and infrastructure.

Government Resources and Support

• Civil Defence: Follow advice from Civil Defence for specific weather events.
• Financial Assistance: Explore government programs that provide financial assistance for disaster preparation and recovery.
• Educational Programs: Participate in programs that educate about disaster preparedness and resilience.

Preparing for bad weather in New Zealand requires a proactive and comprehensive approach. By taking these steps to secure your home and business, you can minimise damage, ensure safety, and recover more quickly from any adverse weather events. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay positive – with the right measures in place, you can face New Zealand's weather challenges with confidence.

If you need some free advice on how to prepare your home or business for a bad weather event feel free to contact your local handyman from The Handyman Group on 0800428400 and we will be happy to send someone out to give you some free advice.