IBC's Top 10 Guide to help you get better prepared for emergencies

TORONTO, May 6, 2013 /CNW/ - It's Emergency Preparedness Week and Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) wants to help Canadians better prepare for severe weather and other potential emergencies to protect their families, homes and  businesses.

"Being on the front lines when disaster strikes, the insurance industry understands the costly and devastating impact of severe weather on Canadians," says Ralph Palumbo, Vice President Ontario, IBC." Every individual has a role to play in getting better prepared for an emergency. IBC is committed to helping families get the information they need to protect themselves and their property from the impact of severe weather"

These top 10 tips will help you to become better prepared to face a range of emergencies:

1. Know the weather risks in your region and their effects to help your family understand the various ways you can protect your loved ones and your property.
2. Every household should have an emergency plan. It will help you and your family know what to do in case of an emergency.
3. Have an emergency kit with basic supplies. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 3 days.
4. Learn how to protect your home from potential flooding.
5. Kids can also learn about the dangers of hurricanes with this educational video.
6. During an emergency know what to do and who to call in different circumstances.
7. Learn who does what during an emergency . We all have a role to play.
8. After an emergency know what you need to do.
9. Always keep a home inventory of your possessions including receipts, photographs or video footage in advance.
10. Talk to your insurance representative about your coverage. Do a current assessment of your needs. Know your home.

IBC has made adapting to severe weather a priority. We're spreading the word on the need to update infrastructure, engaging consumers on how to protect themselves and their properties, and working with provincial and municipal governments to help develop, promote and implement adaptation measures. For more information click here or visit ibc.ca.

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, car and business insurers. Its member companies represent 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. The P&C insurance industry employs over 115,000 Canadians, pays more than $7 billion in taxes to the federal, provincial and municipal governments, and has a total premium base of $44 billion.

To view media releases and other information, visit the media section of IBC's website at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau or like us on Facebook.

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:

Steve Kee
Director, Media Relations
Insurance Bureau of Canada
416-362-2031 X-4387
416-841-5669
[email protected]