Summer is a fun time to enjoy the warm weather, sunshine, and the many outdoor activities and adventures. And while we’re enjoying all the pleasures of the hot summer months, let’s remember to keep fire safety top of mind.

CAA encourages homeowners to protect their property against embers as hot, dry summers are resulting in wildfires across the country. The reality is that most homes do not ignite from direct contact with flames from wildfires. It’s estimated that 90% of homes are destroyed indirectly by embers that are carried by the wind. Homeowners should prioritize the “Immediate Zone” around their home, which is the first 1.5 meters out from the walls of their house. It’s never too late to plan your family’s household emergency plan.

Here's additional protection advice from CAA Insurance for Saskatchewan property owners:

Homes or Cottages:

1. Clear away vegetation, as it is fuel for fire. Swap flower beds against the house for a non-combustible hardscape using materials such as flagstone or concrete.
2. Move what burns. Get rid of yard trimmings, firewood, propane tanks and all flammables close to your house and deck. 
3. Clear yard waste and flammable materials from under the deck. If the deck is wood, replace any rotten or cracked boards. 
4. Build a fire-resistant garden. There are plants with moist, supple leaves and little or no sap, resin, oil or wax that look beautiful and are less likely to spread a fire. 
5. If you own a pet, consider pet alert window decals so emergency responders know the number and type of pets in your home. This information can be crucial for firefighters during rescue operations. 

 Home or Cottage Renovations:

1. When it comes time to replace or upgrade your deck or fence, consider replacing it with a fire-rated surface. 
2. When it comes time to replace your windows or doors, if you can choose multi-pane, tempered glass windows and non-combustible or fire-rated doors and garage doors. 
3. When it’s time for a new roof, choose Class-A, fire-rated roof material such as metal, asphalt, slate, clay or concrete. The difference is huge, as statistics show wildfire structure survival is 90 per cent for a non-combustible roof. 

“Our team of experienced and knowledgeable insurance brokers can help you select the best property insurance plan for your home or cottage,” said Lori Madsen, General Manager, CAA Saskatchewan Insurance Services.  

Visit FireSmart Canada to learn more about fire safety. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has further information on how to prepare your home during a wildfire.

 For further information, contact:

Lona Gervais, Senior Communications Specialist
CAA Saskatchewan
Lona.gervais@caask.ca
306.515.4359

Christine Niemczyk, Director, Corporate Communications & Public Relations
CAA Saskatchewan
Christine.niemczyk@caask.ca
306.529.8212