Wildfire insurance resources and what you need to know

As of today, Canada is in the middle of one of its most active wildfire seasons in years. More than 850 wildfires are burning nationwide, with dozens raging out of control across Northern Ontario, where entire communities, including Armstrong and several First Nations, have been forced to evacuate. British Columbia is also seeing conditions escalate quickly, with new evacuation orders issued near Pemberton and dry lightning raising the risk of further fires across the Interior. Our thoughts are with everyone who has been evacuated, displaced or otherwise affected. As this season continues to unfold, we want to make sure you and your family have the information and resources you need to stay safe and protect what matters most.

Wildfires are unplanned, spread fast and are incredibly dangerous. With millions of Canadian homes at risk, everyone should know their area's risk level and prepare in case one affects their neighbourhood.

Environment and Climate Change Canada notes that wildfire smoke can travel thousands of kilometres from its source, affecting air quality far beyond the fire zone itself. The effects of smoke can range from eye and respiratory irritation to more serious issues, including reduced lung function, bronchitis, asthma flare-ups and heart problems. That means the danger exists even if you're well away from the flames themselves, so it's important to have an emergency plan in place.

Reduce your personal risk while protecting your family

1. Learn about the dangers

Wildfires don't often begin in heavily populated areas. This means you may have some time to prepare your home ahead of evacuating to maximize its chances of survival. FireSmart Canada, the national wildfire mitigation program, has put together resources about the Home Ignition Zone and what you can do in each zone around your home to minimize fire damage as a wildfire gets closer.

These are best practices that can, and should, be done year-round to stay safe from any type of fire. Take special care during wildfire season to double check that you're up to date on all of these steps.

In the immediate zone, up to 1.5 metres from your home, FireSmart Canada suggests:

• Clean roofs and gutters – Clear away debris that embers or sparks could ignite.
• Repair loose shingles – Replace or fix damaged shingles so embers can't find an entry point.
• Install fine mesh screening – Cover exterior vents with fine metal mesh to keep embers out.
• Repair window screens – Replace or repair any loose or damaged screens.
• Box in decks and patios – Enclose the areas below patios and decks to prevent debris buildup.
• Clear flammable materials – Move mulch, leaves, firewood and other flammable items away from your home's exterior.

To learn more about these steps, and what you can do as you get further from your home, review FireSmart Canada's home preparation resources.

2. Check your insurance policy

While wildfire insurance doesn't exist as its own specific policy, standard homeowner insurance typically covers damage from fire, including wildfires. However, if you live in a high-risk area, such as parts of British Columbia, Alberta or Northern Ontario, your options for carriers may be limited, and the policies available to you could exclude this damage unless you purchase additional coverage.

If you're unsure about your policy, you can talk to one of our brokers to find out what your policy covers and what additional options may be available to you.

Carefully review your policy and check on these coverages that might apply to a wildfire insurance claim:

• Dwelling coverage – This covers the physical structure of your house as well as attached structures such as decks and garages.
• Other structures coverage – This applies to detached structures like a shed or a fence.
• Personal property coverage – This covers the items inside your home, like furniture and appliances.
• Loss of use coverage – Also known as additional living expenses coverage, this pays for a hotel while your house is unlivable, whether because of an evacuation order or ongoing repairs.

Remember that insurance coverage terms are always subject to the conditions of your policy, which include accurately reflecting your property on the policy application, paying your premiums on time and notifying your insurance company of a claim promptly.

3. Plan for all possible outcomes

Wildfire safety comes in two forms: evacuating and staying in place. Pay attention to local news and provincial emergency alerts to learn which applies to your neighbourhood for each fire. It's important to follow the instructions of local authorities so that roads aren't overwhelmed and people who need to evacuate are able to do so.

Whether you're evacuating or staying in place, there are steps you can take to help safeguard your home. Keep a fire-resistant zone of 10 metres around your home that is free of leaves and debris, as recommended by FireSmart Canada. You can also plan your evacuation routes so you're prepared if authorities determine that you should leave your house.

It's important to have two separate emergency kits for wildfire, one for staying in place and one for evacuating. A kit for staying home should include supplies for a two-week period, including:

• Water – Pack at least 4 litres per person, per day.
• Non-perishable food – Stock enough to last the full two-week period.
• Radio – Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio on hand.
• First aid kit – Include supplies for treating common injuries.
• Medication and medical equipment – Pack a full supply along with any needed devices.
• Multi-purpose tool – Keep one accessible for basic repairs.
• Cash – Have some on hand in case card systems are unavailable.

Evacuating families should pack for three days. An evacuation may last longer, but a three-day supply is easy to carry, and you can purchase additional items as needed. A good list to start with includes:

• Water – Pack at least 4 litres per person, per day.
• Non-perishable food – Choose items that can be eaten without heating.
• Medications and medical equipment – Bring a full supply along with any needed devices.
• Hygiene items – Pack the basics you'll need each day.
• Copies of personal documents – Keep identification and important paperwork together.
• Cell phone and charger – Bring a charger and, if possible, a portable battery pack.
• Cash – Have some on hand in case you can't access an ATM or card payment.
• Maps – Keep printed maps in case you lose cell service.

Beyond these basics, consider the specific needs of your family members. For example, pack extra bottles and pacifiers for babies or activities for children. The Canadian Red Cross has a helpful list of additional items to consider when planning for a possible evacuation.

4. The danger isn't over when you return

Continue to listen to local authorities and provincial emergency management agencies for information about when it's safe to return home. Upon return, be cautious outside. There may still be ash, embers, smouldering debris and heat pockets that can cause burns or even ignite a new fire. Beyond the fire risk, there could be infrastructure damage, such as fallen power lines.

Follow public health guidelines for cleaning homes and yards and always wear safety equipment. An N95 mask, long sleeves and long pants will go a long way toward keeping you safe from ash and smoke after a fire. Check food and water to be sure they haven't been contaminated or gone bad before eating.

5. File insurance claims quickly and completely

When filing a post-wildfire insurance claim, be sure to photograph and document the damage. Compare the post-fire state of your belongings to your home inventory and submit the information to your insurance company. After photographing the damage, you can clean your home, but don't throw anything away until you've spoken with your insurance company. They may want the full items or samples for an inspector to review.

Understand what you're covered for and where you might need more protection

Your standard homeowner insurance will likely cover most wildfire damage. Talk to our VIU by HUB team to learn more about your specific circumstances and coverage. A wildfire can already cause substantial, unexpected damage. Don't let it damage your pocketbook, too.