IBAM Fire Prevention Tips

Fire disasters can happen at anytime, both in the home or outside. Accidents and wildfire are two common fire-related incidences that can occur. It is important to be prepared in case of a fire by always practicing in fire-safe practices and making sure you have the right insurance coverage in place. Talk to your broker today to make sure you’re covered.

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Why is getting the right insurance important? 

In the event of a fire, it is extremely important that you have the right insurance coverage that covers all of your family's belongings. Getting advice from a professional insurance broker will help you choose the best policy for your lifestyle. Choosing an insurance policy that accommodates your needs and covers your possessions will help alleviate financial stress during unexpected events.

House Fire FAQs

Does my home insurance policy cover for fire damage? posted on Jul 17, 2024
Most home and business insurance policies cover fire damage. Making sure you have the right coverage for all of your belongings is important however. Talk to your broker today about your coverage. Find a broker  link
What is covered in my home insurance policy? posted on Jul 17, 2024
This depends on your insurance policy. In the event of a fire, your insurance policy may cover your structure (eg. foundation, roof, walls, and other essential belongings), your personal belongings, additional living expenses and the cost of temporary housing. For more information on your specific policy, talk to your insurance broker.  link
Does renters insurance cover fire protection? posted on Jul 17, 2024
Yes! Most renters or tenant's insurance will cover your property for fire damage, smoke damage, and even water damage. Renters insurance is important because it will cover your belongings that are not covered by your landlord’s policy and can cover any damage that happens to other buildings or units around you. To find out what your insurance policy includes or to get renters insurance, talk to your local insurance broker.   link
What do I do if I have a fire claim? posted on Jul 17, 2024
Tips for Starting a Claim Call your insurance broker. Many insurers and brokers have 24-hour claims phone numbers to take your information and start the claims process.  Be sure to be as detailed as possible when providing information. If safe to do so, look at and document the fire and water damage to your property.  Taking photos or video can be helpful for the insurance company. Begin making a list of all the damaged or destroyed items.  If you are able, begin assembling any proof of purchase documents, photos, receipts and warranties that you have for the damaged items.  Take photos of the damaged items which show the damage that happened. Keep all receipts related to cleanup and securing your property.  When safe to do so, you should be taking steps to prevent further damage to your home which may include installing tarps over holes made to the structure or boarding up doors and windows.  You may also be entitled to living expenses if you are unable to live in your home after a fire.  This can be either because your home has experienced fire damage which prohibits you from living in it or if you were told to evacuate the area by a civil authority (normally due to wildfires).  Ask your insurance broker about what your options are. link
Am I responsible for damage that happens to my neighbours? posted on Jul 17, 2024
Insurance policies can include coverage for you in the event that a fire you are responsible for damages the home or property of others.  This can include a fire in your home that spreads to your neighbours, a bonfire in your backyard that has sparks landing on other properties which spread, or a fire that starts in a shared property complex (apartment or condo).  Any property that is not owned by you but is damaged due to your actions can be covered under the liability insurance on your policy.   link
If I cannot live in my home after a fire, does my insurance cover that? posted on Jul 17, 2024
If the fire damage is extensive and you are not able to live in your home after a fire, homeowner's and renter's insurance policies may provide coverage for you to live in a hotel or elsewhere while your home is being fixed. Talk to your broker today about your options.  Find a Broker link

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How to be Fire Safe

Help stay fire safe this summer! Check out some of our below tips on how to keep you and your family safe:

Fire Safety Tip #1: Create a fire escape plan

Create an emergency plan with your family to ensure that all family members know what to do in the event of a fire.  Your plan should include all possible exit routes from each room of your home as well as a safe place to meet if you are not at home or need to evacuate.

Fire Safety Tip #2: Install and monitor smoke alarms

Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms. Test smoke alarms once a month. Change the batteries at least once a year - if your model requires it.

Home Depot has great tips and step-by-step instructions on how to install different types of smoke detectors in your home. Read more about it here. 

Fire Safety Tip #3: Make sure to properly extinguish candles, and don’t leave the stove unattended

Did you know?: the most common causes of house fires are cooking (leaving the stove unattended), improperly extinguishing cigarettes and leaving candles unattended. Ensure you do not leave stoves or candles unattended. Keep flammable items at least one metre away from heat sources and unplug items when they are not being used.

Fire Safety Tip #4: Talk to your family about fire safety

Talk to children about the dangers of fire and keep lighters and matches out of reach. Make sure everyone knows where the fire extinguishers are kept. Learn fire safety techniques and teach them to your family regularly. Make sure everyone is familiar with the technique “STOP, DROP, AND ROLL” in case clothing catches on fire.

Fire Safety Tip #5: Keep an eye out for sparks

While enjoying the outdoors this summer, keep an eye out for sparks! Adopt a fire safe mindset and make sure to extinguish fire pits after a bonfire. Make sure to never leave your bonfire unattended. 

Fire Safety Tip #6: Take action

Whenever you suspect a fire, call 911.  Often a person assumes that someone else has called and they do not call themselves which can result in precious minutes lost by the fire department’s delay.

Source: Get Prepared 

Information provided by: Canadian Red Cross and Stay Safe.

For more information on what fire coverage is available to you or to purchase insurance on your property, please speak with your local independent insurance broker.  Your broker will discuss your insurance requirements and work with you to find an insurance company that best fits your needs.  A list of brokerages can be found here.

Note: The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. IBAM is not responsible for the use of these fire safety tips. In the event of a fire, please contact your local fire department.