IBC Top 10 Tips for a safe and happy New Year

EDMONTON, Dec. 31, 2015 /CNW/ - As we welcome the New Year, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reminds western Canadians to review their home insurance policies, update their home inventories and take steps to protect their personal property.  

"Reviewing and updating your home inventory list after the holiday season, which may have brought expensive gifts into your home, helps protect your personal property and can speed up the claims process in the event of a theft or loss," said Bill Adams, Vice-President, Western and Pacific, IBC. "As we prepare to ring in 2016, we at IBC encourage western Canadians to take a few moments to review our important tips on how to ensure that the New Year is a safe and happy one for you and your family."

IBC's top 10 Tips for a safe New Year are:

1. Review your insurance policy to ensure that you have adequate coverage.
2. Shop around to find the right policy for your own unique situation.
3. To prevent possible slips and falls, keep your walkways and front stairs clear of snow and ice.
4. Create or review your family emergency plan.
5. Update your home inventory list by adding new items, including gifts received over the holidays. 
   • Note the approximate value of the items, including makes, models, serial numbers and any other identifying marks.
6. If necessary, hire an appraiser to determine the value of works of art or jewellery to avoid a possible claims misunderstanding.
7. Take photos or a video of your home's contents.
8. Keep your home inventory list, and photos or video of your home's contents in a safety deposit box, a fire proof safe or in another secure location away from your home. 
9. If you are renting, ensure you have tenant's insurance. A landlord's policy will not typically cover your personal belongings or liability.
10. If you have questions, speak to your insurance representative.
    • For further information, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ASK-IBC.

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 1-844-2ask-IBC.

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

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

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