Returning home: Insurance experts provide tips for wildfire evacuees returning home

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09 Jun, 2023, 13:00 ET

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HALIFAX, NS, June 9, 2023 /CNW/ - Thousands of Atlantic Canadians are returning to their homes following the lifting of several evacuation orders from the ongoing wildfires. This will be a difficult time for many. Residents should not attempt to re-enter their property until officials have deemed it safe to do so.

Those with damage to their property will likely have questions about their insurance coverage. That's why Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is reaching out with information to help residents over the coming days and weeks.

"We can appreciate the devastation many people are feeling as they return home after the wildfires. IBC and the insurance industry are here on the ground, ready to help," said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. "When returning to a home or business after a wildfire, it is best to take extra safety precautions. Unseen dangers may linger, so using caution can help reduce the chance of injury. When in doubt, seek advice from an expert."

Here's what you need to know about fridges and freezers and your insurance coverage:

As you return home following approval by authorities, you may discover that your home heating oil tank was affected during the fire. It's important to take steps to protect you, your family and your property.

"As residents return home, it's important to keep safety as a first priority. Do not enter your home until it is safe to do so, as indicated by the local authorities who will be releasing properties back to homeowners," said Dean. "We encourage everyone to contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre by phone at 1–844–2ask–IBC with general insurance questions, or if you are having trouble getting in contact with your insurance representative."

As reported by IBC earlier this year, 2022 was the third-worst year on record in terms of insured damages across Canada due to severe weather. IBC is continuing to engage with the federal and provincial governments on ways to improve the climate resilience of communities. Insured losses related to severe weather in Canada now routinely exceed $2 billion annually. By comparison, between 2001 and 2010, Canadian insurers averaged $675 million a year in losses related to severe weather.

Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up the vast majority of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow us on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

For further information: Media Contact: Brett Weltman, Manager, Media Relations, IBC, [email protected]