How To Protect Commercial Property From Wildfires
Wildfire seasons in Canada are becoming more intense, occurring more frequently and doing more damage. In 2023, almost 18.5 million hectares of land were destroyed, the worst wildfire season ever recorded. This trend carried on throughout 2024, with $8.5 billion in insured damages, the greatest amount for any severe weather-related insurance loss in Canadian history.
For commercial property owners, the future is very much threatening. A $1.23 billion wildfire that scorched the town of Jasper, Alberta, in 2024 destroyed one-third of the town’s buildings. Being reactive to fire risk mitigation is simply not an option; it is imperative.
Here are some practical measures to protect your buildings, assets, and employees from the ever-increasing threats of wildfires.
Step 1: The Basics Should Come First
Routine maintenance goes a long way as a first step and very important defense. These few but critical actions go a long way in reducing risk
1.Clear the debris from the roof and perimeter: This includes dry leaves or any such material that is flammable on rooftops, guttering, loading docks, and on property perimeter.
2.Relocate combustibles: Flammable materials should be kept at a minimum of 10 m from any structure.
3.Landscaping: Consider fire-resistant landscaping, such as gravel or rock instead of wood mulch. Keep grasses and other low vegetation well trimmed.
4.Keep vents and louvers clean: Regular inspection for ember intrusion is recommended for rooftop and wall vents.
Step 2: Moderate Upgrades
Under routine maintenance activities go several wedges of mid-level upgrades for augmented protection:
1.Install ember-resistant vents: Use non-combustible screening to minimize entry of embers into the building.
2.Upgrade perimeter fencing: Replace wood fencing with metal, vinyl, or other non-combustible materials.
3.Add fire-rated skirting and barriers: Protect the base of the building with non-combustible skirting and flame-resistant barriers.
4.Remove hazard trees: Remove all diseased or dead trees within 10 meters around your commercial buildings.
Step 3: Capital Improvements
Consider the following major upgrades for long-term protection and peace of mind in any high-risk wildfire zone:
1.Install fire-resistant roofing: Should consist of Class A rated materials like metal, asphalt shingles, or tile.
2.Replace exterior cladding: Retrofit your structures with non-combustible siding such as fiber cement or stucco.
3.Upgrade windows and doors: Use tempered glass and fire-rated doors to prevent breakage and heat penetration.
4.Install exterior wildfire sprinkler systems: In extremely high-risk locations, rooftop and perimeter sprinkler systems can be a critical layer of defense.
Emergency Preparedness For Businesses
- Create a wildfire response plan: Include evacuation procedures. communication trees, and asset protection protocols.
- Train your team: Conduct regular fire drills and employee training on wildfire safety.
- Backup & recovery: Ensure data, equipment, and records are regularly backed up and protected.
- Review insurance: Confirm your policy covers wildfire-related damage, downtime, and business interruption.
Final Thoughts
With the increasing threat of wildfires across Canada, businesses can no longer afford to take a passive approach. From everyday maintenance to long-term upgrades and emergency planning, every step counts in reducing your risk.
Take action now, talk to our expert commercial insurance broker.
