The
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) issued a statement yesterday warning those living in the south coastal portion of British Columbia to prepare for stormy weather due to arrive this evening.
Environment Canada has forecasted rainfalls upwards of 200mm.
“Storms such as this can have a huge impact on families and communities,” said IBC vice-president of Western and Pacific Bill Adams. “That’s why we want to help make sure that British Columbians are prepared for when bad weather strikes.”
The IBC has released a list of tips for homeowners to follow to help protect their homes from storm damage.
- Store valuable items in upper floors of your home, away from the basement.
- On lower levels raise large appliances, furnaces, hot water heaters and electrical panels up on wood or cement blocks
- If flooding is imminent, shut off electricity to areas of the home that may be affected. Use sand bags or install flood shields or built-up barriers for basement windows and doors.
- Create an emergency preparedness plan with your family.
- Assemble an emergency supply kit.
- Prepare a detailed home inventory.
- Pay attention to local authorities and monitor weather developments regularly.
The bureau also released a claims process checklist to guide homeowners should their homes require repairs following the weather event.
- 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).
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