Weathering the Storm in Alberta Series – Part 2
TL;DR
Wildfire risk in Alberta is growing due to hotter, drier summers and wind-driven fire spread. Homeowners and business owners alike should take proactive steps to reduce risk, such as clearing vegetation, upgrading materials, and reviewing their insurance. Key resources include Alberta’s wildfire status map, NASA’s global fire tracker, and practical guides from FireSmart and the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction (ICLR). Most insurance policies cover wildfire damage, but it’s important to check your limits and exclusions before fire season peaks.
The Growing Threat of Wildfire in Alberta
Alberta has always been vulnerable to wildfire, but in recent years, the frequency, intensity, and impact have increased. In 2023, more than 2 million hectares burned, displacing thousands and stressing emergency systems across the province.
Wildfires are no longer just a rural risk. Properties in suburban and even urban-fringe areas are increasingly threatened by ember showers and dry vegetation nearby.
Wildfire Risk Isn’t Just About Proximity to Forest
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to live in a forest or highly treed area to be at risk. Fires can spread through grasslands, parks, or undeveloped land near communities. Homes or businesses within 30 to 100 metres of flammable vegetation are considered at heightened risk. Whether or not you’re at immediate risk, there are a couple of places you can track current wildfire activity.
Wildfire Preparedness for Home Owner
Aside from tracking wildfires, there are several key steps home owners can take to protect themselves. An excellent source of information is the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction (ICLR). Their 2024 FireSmart Homeowners Guide outlines several key steps homeowners can take to reduce wildfire exposure:
| Immediate Zone (0-1.5m) | Intermediate Zone (1.5-10m) | Extended Zone (10-30m) |
| – Clear roof & gutters of needles and leaves – Vent screens can prevent sparks and embers from reaching inside | – Keep grass short (<10cm) – Replace mulch with gravel or crushed rock – Store firewood at least 10m from home | – Space trees & remove excess brush – Prune branches within 2m of the ground |
Image Source: ICLR protect your home from wildfire PDF
Upgrade where possible:
- Install metal or asphalt roofs
- Use fiber cement, stucco, or brick siding
- Fit windows with tempered glass
Wildfire Preparedness for Businesses
Commercial properties face added risk due to larger footprints, complex operations, and often higher reconstruction costs.
According to the ICLR Wildfire Bulletin for Commercial Properties, businesses should:
- Identify all ignition-prone areas (roofs, vents, under decks, signage)
- Establish defensible space around all structures
- Secure emergency backup systems and offsite data storage
- Create and regularly test a wildfire response plan
- Understand downtime and business interruption coverage in their commercial insurance policy
While risk management is necessary to mitigate potential losses, knowing how your insurance policy will respond is important.
What Does Insurance Cover?
Most home and commercial property insurance policies in Alberta do include wildfire coverage, but there are a few critical details to check.
Typically covered:
- Structural damage and rebuilding
- Additional living expenses (home) or loss of income (business)
- Smoke damage and debris removal
When reviewing your policy, be sure to clarify a few key details with your broker:
- Are you insured for replacement cost or actual cash value?
- Are all outbuildings, detached structures, or signage included in your coverage?
- If you own a rental or run a business, do you have coverage for business interruption or rental income?
- Finally, ask whether your evacuation coverage applies automatically or only when a mandatory evacuation order is issued.
Before a Wildfire Alert or Evacuation
If your area is under threat:
- Take photos of your property and valuables
- Gather documents (ID, insurance, prescriptions)
- Follow all evacuation orders, coverage may be impacted if you stay against official guidance
- Notify your broker as soon as possible, even if no damage has occurred
Cornerstone is Here to Help
Wildfires are unpredictable, but your insurance coverage shouldn’t be. At Cornerstone, we can walk you through your home or business policy to make sure you’re prepared and protected.
More in the ‘Weathering the Storm in Alberta’ series:
Part 1 – Hail Damage in Alberta: What Homeowners Need to Know
Part 3 – Flooding & Water Damage: Know Your Risks and Coverage
Part 4 – Wind & Tornado Damage: Protecting Your Alberta Home and Business
