As we head into wildfire season in British Columbia, it's crucial for homeowners and businesses alike to be proactive in protecting their properties. Wildfires pose a serious risk not only to the physical structures we cherish but also to our peace of mind and financial stability. By understanding the risks and preparing accordingly, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of devastating losses.

Preventative Steps to Protect Your Home and Business

  1. Create a Defensible Space:
    • Maintain a buffer zone by removing dead vegetation, dry grass, and other flammable materials within at least 10 meters around structures.
    • Prune trees regularly to remove lower branches, reducing the risk of fire climbing into the treetops.
  2. Building Maintenance:
    • Regularly clean gutters and roofs of dry leaves, twigs, and pine needles.
    • Use fire-resistant building materials, especially for roofs, decks, and fences, when renovating or building new structures.
  3. Plan and Educate:
    • Develop an evacuation plan and regularly practice it with family members or staff.
    • Ensure everyone knows multiple evacuation routes.

When Wildfires Approach: Immediate Actions

  • Stay Informed: Continuously monitor local news and official channels for updates on wildfire movements and evacuation notices.
  • Prepare Emergency Supplies: Gather important documents, medications, personal items, and emergency supplies so they’re ready for quick evacuation.
  • Protect Structures: Close all doors, windows, and vents to prevent embers from entering. Move flammable furniture away from windows.
  • Assist Emergency Responders: Clearly mark your address, leave gates unlocked, and remove obstructions so responders can easily access your property.

Next Steps: Preparing for the Season Ahead

  1. Insurance Planning:
    • Review and update your home and business insurance policies to ensure adequate wildfire coverage.
    • Consider moving your insurance renewal date outside the wildfire season. Renewing your policy during peak wildfire activity can complicate the process and potentially result in coverage gaps or delays.
  2. Inventory Your Assets:
    • Document possessions and valuables with photographs and maintain an inventory list for insurance claims.
  3. Engage Your Community:
    • Participate in community wildfire preparedness programs and workshops.
    • Encourage neighbors and local businesses to join forces in proactive wildfire risk mitigation efforts.

Wildfire season doesn't have to be a season of anxiety. Taking these preventative measures and planning strategically can provide peace of mind and help protect your investments and community. By acting early and thoughtfully, you position yourself and your business to weather wildfire season with resilience and preparedness.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Wildfire Season #Essential Preparation #Emergency Supplies #Buffer Zone #Insurance Planning

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