Lightning, tornadoes, hail, violent winds and other weather events called “acts of God” can affect anyone. Is your home insured against these natural disasters?
Contact your insurance company to review your individual coverage.
Most home insurance policies automatically cover damage caused by these “unpredictable” weather events. But what damage is covered — and what’s not — varies from policy to policy.
Insurance Bureau of Canada
The following is generally NOT covered, but special coverage is available:
Flooding is generally not covered; it is considered predictable. Insurance only protects against the unexpected. However, policies do cover other kinds of water damage, for example from a broken water main.
If you rent, it’s just as important to have insurance for your possessions. It’s also important to realize you’re on the hook if something on your property causes damage to someone else’s — for instance, if wind sends your patio umbrella crashing into a neighbour’s living room window
In the case of evacuation in severe weather, tornadoes, (or if you live in a mobile home) go to sturdy shelter. Evacuation is more likely during winter months, when plummeting temperatures can make a house inhabitable. Although a house can be damaged by low temperatures, the major threat is to the plumbing system. If a standby heating system is used, check to see that no part of the plumbing system can freeze.
You may be instructed to "shelter-in-place" if chemical, biological or radiological contaminants are released into the environment. This means you must remain inside your home or office and protect yourself there.
Communicating with family during disasters
We rely on technology more and more to keep in touch with our family, friends, and colleagues. After a disaster, these tools become vital in helping you connect with family and friends to let them know you are safe.
Keep in mind it may be difficult to make local telephone or cellular calls because of damaged infrastructure and the sheer volume of people calling. Have a back-up plan, including an out-of-town contact. Land lines (long distance circuits) are often unaffected and can still be an effective way to check on your loved ones.
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