Making Your Home Ready For A Tornado

By Odessa Starnvern


Is there significant risk of being struck by a tornado in Canada? Canada does have tornadoes, and in some places it happens repeatedly. Annually, Canada has about 80 tornadoes reported. After the United States, Canada is the second most likely country to be hit by tornadoes. If the weather is suitable for a tornado, it can happen in any province, but most of them happen in Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. BC's central interior is actually officially designated to be a tornado zone.

Take the necessary steps to have adequate home insurance. The majority of home insurance policies in Canada will cover tornado damage under the "wind damage" section. If you have a named-perils policy form, you need to look at the list of covered perils in your wording booklet to see if wind damage is covered. There are a few exclusions even for a comprehensive policy, but mostly it covers you for all risks. Check the exclusions list so you know if wind is one of the perils that is not covered. Chances are it's covered.

Other types of tornado-related damage generally covered by your home insurance include:

Windows that are broken; falling trees that damage your home; damage caused by water entering through your damaged roof, or through broken windows; damage caused by sewer back up; and,

for major damage where you must seek temporary accommodation, your living expenses will be covered by most policies.

Next, look at your policy deductible. Often policies have more than one deductible, for instance, a general deductible, a lower glass deductible, and possibly a separate deductible for earthquake. The deductible that must be paid for tornado damage is the general deductible. Some policies could have a separate wind damage deductible, so check your policy declaration page so you know for sure.

As a rule, Canadian policies cover lightning, windstorm, hail, and tornado damage to homes and detached structures, like garages, sheds, and gazebos. Other property outside the home like satellite dishes, antennas and vegetation and trees are excluded in the majority of policies.

Tips for Protection

There are practical ways to get your home ready for a tornado such as installing impact-resistant windows and anchoring heavy items that could become flying debris. Items such as patio furniture and garbage cans should be secured to avoid becoming high-speed projectiles.

Make sure each family member knows what to do and where to take shelter during a tornado, whether at home, work or school. A basement or cellar is the safest place in homes that do not have an underground storm shelter, so the most central room that is lowest is best. Do not take shelter near windows.

Have a 72-hour kit ready before disaster strikes. Include these essential items: first-aid kit, prescriptions, non-perishable food, water, a radio, flashlight, extra batteries, and some extra clothing, bedding, and toiletries if possible.

Be sure you are fully protected, so speak to your insurance provider as soon as possible to ensure proper coverage. In case a disaster like a tornado damages your home significantly, having proper home insurance will help you get your life back on track.




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