Atlantic Canada braces for winter storms: IBC reminds consumers to be prepared

HALIFAX, Jan. 3, 2018 /CNW/ - On the heels of the recent Christmas Day storm that knocked out power to thousands, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is encouraging Atlantic Canadians to prepare for rain, strong winds with severe gusts and heavy snowfall arriving in the region tomorrow. Environment Canada has issued warnings and special weather statements for several parts of Atlantic Canada.

"The first priority is to ensure the safety of yourself and your family," said IBC's Tom O'Handley. "That's why we want to help make sure that Atlantic Canadians are prepared and ready for when bad weather strikes. Monitor local weather conditions, listen to local authorities, and have a plan in place to keep you, your home, and your family safe.  If you have any questions, contact your insurance representative or call IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1?844?2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422). We're here to help." 

Help protect your home when winter weather strikes:

• Check your property for tree branches that may have been weakened from last week's storm and try to mitigate and reinforce damage that has not yet been repaired
• Secure Holiday decorations
• Store valuable items in upper floors of your home, away from the basement.
• Test and maintain smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Ensure your furnace, wood stove and any other heating sources are in good working condition.
• Anchor interior and exterior fuel tanks to the floor or base with a tank stability bracket. A fuel tank can tip over or float in a flood, causing fuel to spill or catch fire. Make sure vents and fill-line openings are above flood levels. For propane tanks, contact the propane company on best storage methods.
• Run water through all plumbing fixtures regularly to prevent freezing.
• Test plumbing shut-off valves to ensure proper functioning.
• If safe to do so, check your eaves troughs and roof for potential ice dams
• Prevent freezing of pipes by fitting exposed pipes with insulation sleeves or wrapping.
• Review your emergency plan with your family.
• Assemble an emergency supply kit, including being ready for 72 hours without electricity.
• Prepare a detailed home inventory.
• Pay attention to local authorities and monitor weather developments regularly.
• If it is safe to drive, remember to slow down and drive for the road conditions.

When severe weather occurs, it is important for consumers to understand their insurance policies and to know what is covered. If damage occurs, IBC is here to help policyholders if they have any insurance ?related questions.

Starting the claims process:

• When safe to do so, assess and document damage.
• Call your insurance representative and/or company to report damage or losses.
• Be as detailed as possible when providing information.
• If you need help getting in touch with your insurer, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422).

About Insurance Bureau of Canada

Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% 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.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 120,000 Canadians, pays $9 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $52 billion.  

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Atlantic or 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.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada