Resources
The Alberta Provincial Government has a webpage dedicated to wildfires
- Farm, animals and livestock preparedness - Provides information and resources for farmers and livestock owners in Alberta to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of emergencies and disasters on their animals and operations.
- Hazard preparedness - Provides information and resources for individuals and communities in Alberta to prepare for and respond to various hazards and emergencies, with breakouts for the varying types of emergency communities may face (e.g. floods, wildfires, storms).
- Make an emergency plan - Provides a guide to the general public (with a focus on families) in Alberta on how to create personalized emergency plans to effectively respond to potential disasters or crises.
- Emergency updates for ongoing disasters - Provides up-to-date information on emergencies and disasters, offering resources and alerts to help individuals stay informed and prepared during crisis situations in Alberta.
- Disaster Recovery Program - Provides financial assistance for uninsurable loss and damage to select small businesses and agricultural operations.
- Farm animals and livestock preparedness - Provides guidance and resources for farmers and livestock owners in Alberta to prepare for and mitigate the impact of emergencies and disasters on their animals and agricultural operations.
If you are impacted by the Jasper wildfire:
For your house/personal
Home Insurance
Just like business insurance, you will want to get in touch with your home insurance provider to ensure that your house is covered for wildfire damage. This is much more common to be included in home insurance, however, it is always best to confirm. Additionally, if you have not catalogued good in your house that you would like insured (that you would not be able to bring with you in an evacuation), now is a good time to do so. Take a picture of the item and receipt (if available) and write a description.
Emergency Evacuation Plan
Wildfires can move fast. If you have kids, pets or a significant other, it is important to have an emergency evacuation plan in place, including: multiple evacuation routes planned (should one be closed), a house exit strategy, plus “ditch kits” (i.e., an overnight bag prepared in case you need to grab and run, including non-perishable foods and water). Know where you are going to go. Do you have family or friends you can stay with? Call them now to confirm so you don’t have to scramble and fight for hotel space. Having a plan in place will help you to maintain your calm and be prepared.
Mortgage
CMHC encourages homeowners to contact their financial institution at the first sign of difficulty to discuss their individual situations and options.
CMHC provides lenders with options for homeowners that may be impacted by these unfortunate events including:
- Deferral of payment
- Re-amortization of the loan, to result in lower payments
- Capitalization of outstanding interest arrears and other eligible expenses
- Special payment arrangements
- A combination of the above
For more information, homeowners may consult “How to Deal with Mortgage Payment Difficulties”.
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