Wildfire season in Canada is here – and it’s already proving to be one of the most aggressive in recent memory. With over 200 active fires burning across provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan, many homeowners are facing a new level of urgency when it comes to protecting their property, their families, and their peace of mind.
Whether you live in a high-risk area or not, wildfire risk is growing across the country. It’s no longer something that only affects remote or forest-adjacent communities. Smoke damage, sudden evacuations, and loss of personal property are very real concerns for thousands of Canadians each summer – and it’s never too early to make sure you’re prepared.
1. Review Your Home Insurance Policy Before You Need It
The first step is simple: understand what your policy covers and where gaps may exist. Most standard home insurance policies in Canada include coverage for fire-related damage, including wildfires. However, the specifics, like limits for personal property or additional living expenses, can vary.
Now’s a good time to speak with your broker and confirm:
- What’s covered under your current plan
- How much coverage you have for contents and structure
- Whether your policy includes mass evacuation coverage (which helps cover temporary relocation costs if you’re forced to leave due to wildfire threats)
If you’re unsure, don’t wait until a wildfire is already close to home. Policy changes can’t usually be made once your area is under threat.
2. Create a Digital Home Inventory
If you had to submit a claim tomorrow, could you list everything you own and its value? Most people can’t – which is why a digital home inventory is one of the smartest things you can do to speed up a claim and recover losses more accurately.
Walk through your home with your smartphone and film your belongings room by room. Take photos of important documents, high-value items, electronics, furniture, and appliances. Keep receipts if you have them, or log estimated values in a secure online document.
Having a digital record ready means you won’t have to rely on memory in the middle of a stressful situation.
3. Make Your Property Fire-Smart
Preventative landscaping can significantly reduce your home’s vulnerability during wildfire season. Keeping the area around your home clear of dry leaves, brush, and flammable materials helps create a “defensible space” that may slow the spread of fire.
Trim trees, move firewood away from structures, and clean out gutters regularly. If you’re in a high-risk area, consider investing in fire-resistant roofing or siding. Some insurance providers even offer discounts for homes that follow FireSmart principles.
4. Build an Emergency Plan (and Practice It)
In the event of a wildfire evacuation, you may have only minutes to respond. A family emergency plan ensures everyone knows what to do, where to meet, and what to bring.
Keep an emergency kit packed with essentials: copies of IDs, medications, pet supplies, cash, and a few days’ worth of clothing. Don’t forget important insurance documents and contact info for your broker or provider.
It may sound extreme, but doing a dry run can help identify what’s missing and give your household peace of mind.
5. Stay Informed and Connected
Knowledge is your best line of defence. Monitor local fire maps, follow your municipality on social media for alerts, and sign up for emergency notifications. Some areas offer apps that notify residents of evacuation zones and air quality updates in real time.
It’s also smart to keep your insurance broker’s contact info saved in your phone or client portal. In times of stress, having a familiar voice walk you through next steps can make all the difference.
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As wildfire season ramps up across Canada, preparation is key. A few proactive steps today can protect your property, your financial security, and your ability to recover if disaster strikes. Insurance is about more than just coverage – it’s about confidence in knowing you’re protected, even in the face of the unexpected.
Our team at Duliban Insurance is here to help. We’ll walk you through your current policy, explain your options, and make sure you’re ready – just in case. Be in touch, today.
