Many Canadians "on edge" due to volatile weather – First Onsite survey

Many Canadians “on edge” due to volatile weather – First Onsite survey | Insurance Business Canada

Catastrophe & Flood

Many Canadians “on edge” due to volatile weather – First Onsite survey

Findings released during Emergency Preparedness Week

Catastrophe & Flood

By
Terry Gangcuangco

A recent study by First Onsite Property Restoration revealed that half of Canadians worry about severe winds and tornadoes, while hurricanes are a cause of concern for a third (28%). In Atlantic Canada, the fear of hurricanes is higher, with 64% worried about the weather event.

First Onsite aligned the release of its survey findings with Emergency Preparedness Week, running from May 5 to 11, an initiative endorsed by Public Safety Canada aimed at bolstering public safety awareness. This year features the “Be Prepared. Know Your Risks” theme.

According to First Onsite’s poll, two-thirds of Canadians believe that climate change is contributing to the rising costs of home and business insurance, a perspective supported by a significant increase in disaster claims. Insurance Bureau of Canada data show that such claims have surged from $400 million in 2008 to $3.1 billion in 2022 and 2023.

The survey, meanwhile, also revealed widespread concern over the potential loss of valuables and personal items, with 69% of respondents worried about this aspect. Similarly, 72% are anxious about the financial implications of major renovations and repairs following weather-related catastrophes.

Jim Mandeville, senior vice president of large loss at First Onsite, emphasized the importance of being prepared: “Volatile weather has put many Canadians on edge, and for a good reason. When disasters strike, knowing what to expect can make a world of difference – that is why planning and preparedness are so essential.”

Additional findings from an earlier segment of the survey indicated that two-thirds of Canadians doubt their disaster preparedness, with 80% concerned about personal or family safety and 63% fearing the possibility of evacuation.

Mandeville also highlighted the significance of proactive measures: “The actions business owners and homeowners take before a storm make all the difference in the recovery afterwards.”

To assist in preparedness, First Onsite offers resources such as a disaster supply kit checklist and a small-business disaster recovery checklist – crucial tools for those wishing to enhance their readiness for unforeseen events.

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