Alberta Wildfires: Advice and Information from IBC

EDMONTON, May 26, 2015 /CNW/ - As thousands of residents are evacuated from their homes in the Slave Lake region, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is reaching out with tips and advice for those affected.

"Most home and business insurance policies will cover fire damage, but the first priority for all must be the safety of you and your loved ones," said Bill Adams, Vice-President, Western & Pacific, IBC.

Mr. Adams added that "in certain circumstances, if you are ordered to leave your residence because of an evacuation order, home and tenant insurance policies will provide coverage for additional living expenses." 

When safe to do so, take these steps to begin the insurance claims process.

• Assess and document potential damages. Taking photos can be helpful.
• Call your insurance representative to report damages or losses.
• Be as detailed as possible when providing information.

IBC understands the toll that these types of events can have on families and communities, and insurers are at the ready to help. Albertans with questions should contact their insurance representative or IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422).

As risk of wildfire is currently high in Alberta and across Western Canada, IBC is reminding residents to take extra precautions. To learn more about wildfire safety and prevention tips for those at risk, click here or visit www.ibc.ca.

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 118,000 Canadians, pays $6.7 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $48 billion.  

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

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

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

To schedule an interview, please contact: Celyeste Power, Manager, Media Relations, 416-362-2031 ext. 4312 (office), 647-384-9872 (after hours), [email protected]