Are you prepared for an emergency?

Insurer RSA urges Canadians to use Emergency Preparedness Week to reduce risk in their homes and businesses

TORONTO, May 3, 2012 /CNW/ - Emergency Preparedness Week, launched by the Federal Government, takes place next week and leading insurer RSA wants to remind Canadians that taking steps now to prepare for an emergency can be the difference between a minor hassle and full-blown disaster.

Spring and summer bring the warm weather but can also come with some unwelcome side effects such as, thunderstorms, flooding, tornadoes and dry conditions that can lead to forest fires. With Disaster Preparedness Week running from May 6 to May 12, it's the perfect opportunity to take a look at your home and business and ensure you have done what you can to reduce risk when it comes to weather-related disasters.

"Simple steps such as installing sump pumps in basements or backflow valves can be critical in preventing sewer backups in the event of flooding or a major rain storm.  Ensuring that trees and bushes are trimmed and any dead branches removed can make all the difference in preventing roof or window damage in the event of a wind storm," says Irene Bianchi, SVP of Claims and Corporate Services at RSA.  "Placing business equipment and other valuables in a shelter during a tornado warning can save a lot of hassle and frustration in the aftermath of a storm."

Canadians are encouraged to prepare an emergency safety kit that includes supplies such as a flashlight, batteries, bottled water, blanket and battery operated radio.  It's also important to store copies of important documents such as wills and insurance policies offsite.

"Ensuring the security of your home or business by checking the strength and make of your doors and windows is also wise," adds Bianchi. "Simple steps we take now can make a real difference in reducing the impact a disaster has on our lives."

For more information and tips on how to prepare for a disaster and what to do in the aftermath, visit RSA's website at www.rsagroup.ca.

About RSA

RSA Canada includes Roins Financial Services Limited, Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada, Quebec Assurance Company, Johnson Inc., Western Assurance Company, Ascentus Insurance Ltd., Canadian Northern Shield Insurance Company, RSA Travel Insurance Inc./Assurance Voyage RSA inc., and is part of the RSA group of companies headed by RSA Insurance Group plc. RSA Canada employs approximately 3,900 people and is represented by a large network of brokers across the country. In 2011, the Canadian Group wrote $2.6bn in direct premiums with assets exceeding $7 billion. RSA is a trade name of Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada. "RSA" and the RSA logo are trademarks used under licence from RSA Insurance Group plc.

Sarah Kennedy - Corporate Communications Consultant, RSA
647-776-9247
[email protected]