Special weather statement issued for parts of British Columbia: Prepare Now

IBC ready to help impacted homeowners

VANCOUVER, Oct. 11, 2016 /CNW/ - Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is encouraging British Columbians living in the south coastal area to prepare for strong winds and heavy rains due to arrive Wednesday night. Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement for much of the region and rainfalls upwards of 200mm are forecasted.

"Storms such as this can have a huge impact on families and communities," said Bill Adams, Vice-President, Western and Pacific, IBC. "That's why we want to help make sure that British Columbians are prepared for when bad weather strikes. If you have any questions, contact your insurance representative or call IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1‑844‑2ask-IBC. We're here to help."

Help protect your home from storm damage:

• Store valuable items in upper floors of your home, away from the basement.
• On lower levels raise large appliances, furnaces, hot water heaters and electrical panels up on wood or cement blocks
• If flooding is imminent, shut off electricity to areas of the home that may be affected. Use sand bags or install flood shields or built-up barriers for basement windows and doors.
• Create an emergency preparedness plan with your family.
• Assemble an emergency supply kit.
• Prepare a detailed home inventory.
• Pay attention to local authorities and monitor weather developments regularly.

When severe weather occurs, it is important for consumers to understand their insurance policies and to know what is covered. If damage occurs, IBC is here to help policyholders if they have any insurance –related questions.

Starting the claims process:

• When safe to do so, assess and document damage.
• Call your insurance representative and/or company to report damage or losses.
• Be as detailed as possible when providing information.
• If you need help getting in touch with your insurer, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ASK-IBC (1-844-227-5422).

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 120,000 Canadians, pays $8.2 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $49 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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To schedule an interview, please contact: Andrew McGrath, Manager, Media Relations, Insurance Bureau of Canada, 416-362-2031 ext. 4312, [email protected]