IBC kicks off Fire Prevention Week with its IBC Top 10 tips for preventing fires and saving lives

HALIFAX, Oct. 6, 2015 /CNW/ - Home fires in Canada account for 30% of all fires and 73% of all fire-related deaths, according to the Council of Canadian Fire Marshals and Fire Commissioners. In many cases, these terrible tragedies could have been avoided, which is why it is vital to take steps to protect homes and families.

"There are a number of important steps you should take to help protect your family from fire, including checking smoke detectors and keeping flammable materials away from your home," explained Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. "This Fire Prevention Week, we encourage families across Atlantic Canada to review each of IBC's top 10 tips for preventing fires and saving lives."

1. Install and regularly check smoke alarms
   • Install smoke alarms in every bedroom, outside each separate sleeping area and on every level of your home. Larger homes may need more alarms.
   • Remove dust, check batteries when the clocks change in the spring and fall, test regularly and replace at least every 10 years.
2. Create an emergency preparedness plan for your family
   • Develop an emergency preparedness plan and fire evacuation plan, practise executing it and stick to the plan in an emergency.
3. Frequently inspect and clean chimney flues
   • Ensure there is no blockage or buildup that could cause a fire.
4. Install proper light bulbs
   • Never use light bulbs with a higher wattage than the maximum indicated on the fixture.
5. Monitor heated appliances and decor
   • Properly use and watch portable heaters, ensure lint is removed from the dryer, never leave an iron unattended and keep an eye on burning candles.
6. Be careful when cooking
   • Use your kitchen safely, especially when deep-frying or cooking with flammable oils.
7. Properly store flammable materials
   • Keep gasoline, solvents, waste and other materials that could ignite at a distance of at least 10 meters from your home.
8. Remove dry leaves and debris
   • Keep leaves, other dry materials and potentially flammable garbage away from the exterior of your house, especially if you have wood or vinyl siding.
9. Prepare and update a home inventory
   • Make a list of what you own, including the value of each item; take photos or make a video of your belongings; and update the list regularly.  
10. Assemble a disaster safety kit
    • Prepare a basic kit of food, water and other necessities that will last at least 72 hours in the event of an emergency  

"Fire is typically covered under a home insurance policy. To learn more about fire coverage, speak to your insurance representative or contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC. We're here to help," added Dean.

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_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

Image with caption: "IBC Top 10: Tips for Preventing Fires and Saving Lives (CNW Group/Insurance Bureau of Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20151006_C6093_PHOTO_EN_515008.jpg

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