Your 2025 Guide to Firework Safety

By Ari Rush Life Insurance

Your 2025 Guide to Firework Safety

Summer is in full swing, and with Canada Day fast approaching, celebrations across the country will soon light up the sky. Fireworks are a cherished tradition, bringing excitement, colour, and joy to backyard gatherings and community events. But before you strike the match, it’s essential to think beyond the spectacle.

Lighting fireworks without proper precautions can lead to severe injuries, fires, and costly property damage. Dry conditions, proximity to flammable materials, or even using fireworks incorrectly can turn a celebration into a crisis.

Whether you’re planning a small family display or attending a neighbourhood event, understanding fireworks safety tips is key. From choosing the right location to handling malfunctioning fireworks, this guide walks you through everything you need to know. It’s not just about staying within the law – it’s about protecting the people and places you care about most.

Celebrate with confidence. Follow these expert tips to keep your festivities fun, safe, and fire-free.

Understanding the Risks of Fireworks

While fireworks are thrilling, they also come with significant risks. Every year, Canadians suffer injuries from fireworks-related injuries from lighting them improperly or standing too close to active displays. Common injuries include burns, eye damage, and hand trauma. Many of these injuries can lead to permanent disability or require extensive medical treatment.

Beyond personal injury, fireworks also pose a serious fire hazard. One stray spark can ignite dry grass, trees, or nearby buildings. In fact, during the summer months, local fire departments often see an increase in emergency calls linked to backyard fireworks displays.

It’s crucial to remember that fireworks are explosive devices, not toys. Treating them with the same caution as any flammable material is key to enjoying your summer celebrations safely.

Legal Considerations in Canada

Fireworks regulations vary across federal, provincial, and municipal levels, meaning what’s permitted in one region may be restricted in another.

At the federal level, Natural Resources Canada regulates the classification and sale of fireworks. Only licensed vendors are authorized to sell consumer fireworks, and buyers must typically be at least 18 years old. Provinces may impose additional restrictions, including bans during high fire-risk periods.

On the municipal level, many cities and towns have their bylaws governing when and where fireworks can be used. For example, some municipalities allow fireworks only on specific dates, like Canada Day, while others require permits for personal displays or prohibit fireworks altogether.

Failing to follow local rules can lead to hefty fines, confiscation of fireworks, and even liability for property damage or injury. Always check your city or town’s website for up-to-date bylaws and safety requirements before purchasing or using fireworks. Doing your due diligence helps keep your celebration safe, legal, and worry-free.

Preparing to Light Fireworks Safely

Before lighting fireworks, preparation is everything. Start by purchasing only legal, consumer-grade fireworks from licensed and reputable vendors. Avoid buying fireworks from unregulated sellers, as these products may not meet Canadian safety standards and could malfunction.

Store fireworks in a cool, dry place that’s well out of reach of children and away from any sources of heat or ignition. Keep them in their original packaging until you’re ready to use them.

When it’s time to celebrate, choose a wide, open outdoor area that’s away from buildings, trees, dry grass, or other flammable materials. A clear site ensures that fireworks have room to function safely and that sparks or debris don’t catch anything unintended.

Always have fire suppression tools ready, such as a bucket of water, a hose connected to a water source, or a fire extinguisher, just in case something goes wrong. It’s also smart to have a first aid kit on hand.

Before lighting fireworks, carefully read the instructions printed on each one. Follow them precisely to reduce the risk of accidents. And remember, children and pets should remain at a safe distance throughout the display. Loud noises and sudden flashes can frighten animals and distract you while handling fireworks.

Taking these simple steps will help ensure your celebration remains fun, safe, and memorable for the right reasons.

Safe Practices When Lighting Fireworks

When it comes to fireworks safety, how you handle them matters just as much as where and when you use them. Following the right procedures can make all the difference between a successful celebration and a dangerous mishap.

Start by designating a sober, responsible adult to light the fireworks. This person should be calm, focused, and prepared for emergencies. Wearing safety glasses and gloves is highly recommended to protect your hands and eyes from sparks or accidental explosions.

Light fireworks one at a time, following the manufacturer’s instructions, and back away immediately after ignition. Never attempt to relight a failed firework. If a firework doesn’t go off, wait at least 20 minutes and then soak it thoroughly in water before disposing of it.

Never hold fireworks in your hands while lighting them. Place them on a flat, stable surface away from your body and others. Ensure all spectators remain at least 20 meters away from the firing zone, especially children and pets who may be more vulnerable to injury or panic.

Once the show is over, it’s important to clean up responsibly. Soak used fireworks in water before discarding them in a metal container. It helps prevent delayed ignition or fires in trash bins. You can create a fireworks safety checklist to guide your setup and procedure. This should include safety gear, emergency tools, and steps for lighting and cleanup.

What to Do in Case of an Emergency

When using fireworks outdoors, being prepared for emergencies is just as important as having fun. Accidents can happen, especially with malfunctioning fireworks, so it’s crucial to respond quickly and safely.

If someone suffers a burn, immediately cool the area with clean, cool (not cold) water for at least 10 minutes. Do not apply ointments or ice. For eye injuries, avoid touching the eye and seek professional medical attention without delay.

Call 911 if an injury is serious, someone is unresponsive, or a fire breaks out. In case of a fire, follow basic fire safety principles: use a hose, bucket of water, or fire extinguisher to control small flames, but evacuate if the fire spreads or becomes unmanageable.

Keep a first aid kit and emergency numbers easily accessible during your fireworks event. Preparation is key to ensuring your outdoor celebration stays safe and under control.

Fireworks and Insurance: What You Need to Know

Before you purchase fireworks, it’s important to understand the potential impact on your home insurance. Fireworks are fun, but when used improperly, such as attempting to throw fireworks, setting them off too close to structures, or ignoring safety guidelines, they can cause fires, injuries, and significant property damage. In these cases, your insurance provider may not cover the costs, especially if fireworks were used in violation of local laws or safety standards.

Fireworks are regulated under consumer product safety laws, meaning there are clear expectations around their handling and use. Failing to follow these regulations could lead to liability for damage to your home or your neighbour’s property.

Take the time to check with your insurance provider to understand what is and isn’t covered. Whether you’re at home, heading to the cottage, or travelling, it’s worth reviewing your home, cottage, or travel insurance policy in advance.

Celebrate smart – plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy fireworks outdoors responsibly. Protect your loved ones, pets, and property while making the most of the season.

Need help to understand your coverage? Contact Oracle RMS today to ensure you’re fully protected before your next celebration.

 

Road Trip Safety Tips for Your End-Of-Summer Ontario Road Trip

By Ari Rush Life Insurance

Road Trip Safety Tips for Your End-Of-Summer Ontario Road Trip

If you’re planning any road trips to wrap up the summer, Ontario’s diverse landscapes offer everything from lively cities to peaceful countryside views, making it a perfect destination. But before you hit the road, it’s important to keep safety in mind to ensure your trip is as enjoyable as it can be. In this blog, we’ll go over some key road trip safety tips to help you stay safe and make the most of your Ontario road trip.

1. Plan Ahead

Ontario’s weather can be unpredictable. Before you hit the road, take a moment to check the weather, road conditions, and traffic updates. Give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination safely—there’s no need to rush.

Remember that Canada is the second-largest country in the world, and in some of the more remote areas, gas stations can be few and far between. Make sure you fill up your gas tank before setting off on a long drive, especially in those less populated areas. Even if you’re relying on GPS, it’s a good idea to look over the directions and maps beforehand and map out what gas station(s) you’ll stop at. Also, it’s a good idea to have an alternate route planned. It can save time and stress if conditions change.

Finally, make sure to share your route and expected arrival time with someone so they know your plans.

2. Vehicle Maintenance

Before you leave, you’ll want to make sure your vehicle is in top condition. If it’s been a while since your car’s last check-up, investing in a tune-up before your road trip could save you from dealing with a costly repair while you’re on vacation. No one wants their air conditioning to break down in the middle of a late-summer road trip. It’s best to get this done at least two weeks before you hit the road, so if your mechanic finds any big issues, you’ll have plenty of time to get them fixed.

However, if you’d like to check your car out yourself, here’s what you’ll need to do:

Tires

Tires naturally lose air over time, even without a puncture, and underinflation is actually the leading cause of tire failure. So, before you head out, make sure each tire is inflated to the pressure recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or on a placard located on the driver’s door pillar or door frame. And don’t forget to check the spare tire if your car has one!

You’ll want to check your tire pressure while the tires are cold to get the most accurate reading—meaning they haven’t been driven on for at least three hours. Remember, the number on the tire itself is the maximum pressure it can hold, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle. Only inflate it to the pressure recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

Fluid Levels

If you’re driving a conventional or hybrid vehicle, it’s a good idea to check your oil level regularly. While you’re at it, check the fluid levels brakes, coolant/antifreeze, radiator coolant, power steering (if it’s hydraulic), windshield washer, and transmission fluid. Make sure each reservoir is topped up, and if you notice any leaks, get your car serviced.

Lights

Take a moment to walk around your car and check all the lights. Make sure your headlights, brake lights, emergency flashers, turn signals, and interior lights are all working properly. If you’re planning to use a trailer, don’t forget to check its brake lights and turn signals, too. If you find any bulbs that are burnt out, go ahead and replace them before you hit the road.

Wiper Blades

Winter storms and spring rains can really wear down your windshield wiper blades, and the summer heat doesn’t do them any favours, either. Take a close look at your wiper blades for any signs of wear on both sides. Sometimes, they can get deformed and won’t work well in both directions. If they’re not in great shape, it’s worth replacing them before you head out on your trip.

3. Rest and Hydrate

Long drives can be exhausting. Luckily, Ontario has numerous rest stops and scenic areas where you can rest, stretch, and hydrate.

If you’ve ever been dehydrated, you know it’s no fun. It can leave you feeling exhausted and irritable and can even cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea. In extreme cases, dehydration can be life-threatening. That’s why it’s crucial to stay hydrated while travelling, especially in a hot summer climate. Make sure you bring lots of water with you.

Also, did you know that driver fatigue is one of the leading causes of accidents in Canada? To avoid drowsy driving, consider pulling over and resting at a motel for the night. Remember, it’s better to arrive late than not at all.

4. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Cell phone coverage can be spotty in remote areas. This is why it’s important to let someone know of your travel plans and expected arrival and departure times. Keep a fully charged phone and a portable charger handy. You should also bring an emergency kit with you just in case you get stuck somewhere.

What to put in your emergency road kit

When assembling your emergency kit, be sure to include the following:

  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight and spare batteries
  • Emergency blankets
  • Safety vest
  • Road flares, traffic cones, and a white flag
  • Jumper cables
  • Jack for changing a tire
  • Tire pressure gauge
  • Physical maps (in case your GPS stops working)
  • Water
  • Nonperishable food
  • A backup cell phone and charger

5. Review Your Car Insurance

Before hitting the road, review your car insurance policy to ensure it covers all potential scenarios, including accidents, towing, and roadside assistance. It’s important to know what your policy includes before you hit the road. 

It’s also a good idea to double-check the renewal date and make sure payments are being processed as expected. The last thing you want is to be involved in an accident while away from home, only to discover your coverage has expired. Also, you should know how to contact your insurance company in case of an emergency. Save their claims phone number in your phone’s contact list, just in case you need it while on your trip.

If you have any questions about your car insurance or are looking to renew, contact an Oracle RMS insurance broker today. We can help you find the right insurance by working with top local insurance companies to get you the best car insurance quotes for your needs. 

2023 Goals

New Year’s Resolution: Make Sure You’re Covered

By Blog Editor Auto Insurance General Info Health Insurance Home Insurance Life Insurance No comment

Happy New Year! Now that it’s 2023 and we’re beginning a brand new decade, this means it’s time for new goals and resolutions. Some examples of the most common New Year’s resolutions are to live life to the fullest, save more money, get organized and more.

While starting a new decade may seem exciting and motivating to many, have you looked at the bigger picture and thought about making sure you’re covered by purchasing the right type of insurance for 2020? Although majority of Canadians have insurance  in one form or another, surprisingly, there are few who would rather take the risk than be protected or they simply ignore getting insurance as they believe it is too expensive. However, having insurance should be part of your New Year’s Resolution because it will ensure you are financially secure to face any type of problem that may occur in life.

Below are the most important types of insurance policies you should purchase:

  1. Home Insurance

The biggest purchase that you’ll ever have to buy is a home. With home insurance, you will protect your home and the contents in it against unexpected risks. It will also protect you from paying a large sum of money in the event of serious damage caused to your home or destruction. Personal liabilities like slip and falls on your property or inside your home, damaging a third party’s property or accidentally injuring someone else are examples of what home insurance will cover. For those who don’t own a home and are currently renting, it is essential to have tenant insurance, which will provide coverage for the renter’s belongings and liability. For more information on tenant insurance, click here.

  1. Auto Insurance

For all car owners, auto insurance is not only a requirement, but it is also mandatory in all of Canada. Driving without insurance is a very serious offence and can result in a fine of a minimum of $5,000.00. Auto insurance will provide coverage for all listed drivers on the vehicle, the vehicle itself and any loss or damages. It will cover you if you’re involved in a car accident with another vehicle that also has damages or if someone is injured, including yourself. With the help of your insurance company, they will help provide the medical and rehabilitation care, financial assistance if you are unable to work and financial protection if you’ve hurt someone that results in a lawsuit.

  1. Life Insurance

There comes a time in life, where you are no longer making decisions for yourself. Eventually you will make decisions for your family instead. In doing so, you will want to put some thought into purchasing life insurance. It can protect the financial security of your family by giving them a tax-free payment after you’ve passed away. The amount and type of coverage you choose will depend on your needs and circumstances since there are four types of life insurance policies that you can purchase: term life insurance, permanent life insurance, participating life insurance and universal life insurance. Keep in mind that life insurance is age-branded, which means that as each year passes by, your policy can become more and more expensive. In addition, the cost of these four types of life insurance also depends on your gender, health, medical history and lifestyle.

  1. Health Insurance

Changes in your health can impact your financial plans. By purchasing health insurance, you will receive coverage that protects your savings from the many healthcare costs not covered by government plans. According to Health for All, there are an estimated 200-500,000 people in the country that do not have health insurance. This is a shocking number for many as Canada is known for their universal health-care program.

  1. Disability Insurance

There are four types of health insurance products that provide protection you could potentially need later on in life. The one you should most likely consider is disability insurance. This is because it will help protect your income, in case you’re no longer able to work temporarily or permanently, due to a life changing injury or illness. By contacting your Oracle RMS licensed broker, you will receive more information on the different types of disability insurance coverage options that are available.     

Worried About Cost?

If part of your New Year’s Resolution is to also save more money, take advantage of the insurance discounts you can get on your home and auto insurance policies. For example, when you combine your home and auto insurance from the same insurance company, you are qualified to receive a discount to lower your overall premium! For more available discounts on your home insurance policy, click here. In addition, for more available discounts on your car insurance policy, click here.

Contact Oracle RMS Today!

The types of insurance products to have are reflected on what’s most relevant for you, your situation and your lifestyle. It truly depends on a number of factors. By contacting Oracle RMS on purchasing insurance, we will advise you on what coverages to have and what coverages to not have, considering that some insurance companies will insist you purchase unnecessary coverages. We will also provide information on optional coverages that are available.

All in all, by ensuring you are insured and secured, there’s no doubt you will achieve your 2023 New Year’s resolution!

What is Pet Insurance and Do You Need it?

By Ari Rush General Info Life Insurance Oracle Info No comment

In 2020, Radio Canada International observed that while more people than ever were interested in owning pets during the pandemic, there appeared to be a corresponding wave of criminal activity and pet theft. And even in non-pandemic times, you can never be too careful when it comes to your fur babies.

Do you want to know how to keep Fido or Fluffy safe for a long time to come? Keep reading to find out more.

The Four Tips You Can Use to Theft-Proof Your Pets

Tip#1: Watch Your Pet at All Times in Public

One way to discourage pet thieves is to simply make a point of watching your furry friend closely whenever you leave the house. Don’t leave your pet alone in your car or outside of the grocery store while you’re running errands. If your dog can’t be trusted without a leash, make sure he or she has one.

Supervision isn’t just about keeping your pet out of trouble. It’s also a great way to keep trouble away from your pet. 

Tip#2: Have an Action Plan Ready In Case Your Pet Goes Missing

As cliche as this is about to sound, if your pet disappears you need to move fast. Some strategies that you can use to quickly locate your missing pet include:

  • Canvassing your neighbourhood
  • Posting in Facebook groups and on classified sites like Kijiji and Craigslist
  • Calling Animal Control or the non-emergency police line
  • Contacting animal shelters in your area

Tip#3: Get Pet Insurance

If your pet has been missing for a while,  you may find after you’ve been reunited that your animal is sick or it has eaten foods that it shouldn’t have. And even when your pet hasn’t actually gone missing, you never know when an accident or a sudden illness will require you to make some decisions about that hefty vet bill. Pet insurance can help you cover these sorts of unexpected costs.

What is Pet Insurance?

With pet insurance, you’re typically expected to pay upfront and be reimbursed by your insurer after you’ve made the payment.

Some common features include:

  • Generally between 50% and 100% coverage
  • Monthly premiums and deductibles
  • Plans often don’t cover pre-existing illnesses

A healthy pet might not need 100% coverage. But if your furry friend needs medical help, a 50% plan could be enough to make the costs more affordable.

Do You Need Pet Insurance?

Pet insurance makes it easier to keep your pet with you in the wake of an unexpected illness or an accident. If you have a dog, cat, or some other animal friend and you’re exploring your pet insurance options, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help!

Electronic Vehicles: What you Need to Know

By Ari Rush General Info Life Insurance Oracle Info No comment

In recent months, more and more Canadians have been exploring the possibility of getting an electric vehicle. And on paper, there’s a lot to like about the idea of not paying for gas ever again. But are electric vehicles practical for Canadians? Should you be looking into the idea more closely? Here are some key facts that current and future electric vehicle owners should know.

1. There are Different Types of Electric Vehicles

There are two types of electric vehicle:

  1. All-electric vehicles; and
  2. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles

Within the all-electric category, there are battery electric vehicles that you plug into the electric grid and charge every night. And then there are fuel cell electric vehicles that rely on hydrogen and don’t have to be plugged in.  Meanwhile, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles operate pretty much exactly as the name says on the tin. With this type of car, you can plug in your car and fill up your gas tank. If you worry that your battery might run out and leave you stranded, plug-in hybrids may be a practical solution.

2. You May Have to Factor in Other Costs

Although you may not be spending as much at the pump, driving an electric vehicle still comes with its own expenses. For starters, access to charging stations isn’t always realistic. If you ever decide to go on a road trip or drive for a more extended period of time, you’ll have to plan your routes based on the presence of nearby charging stations. This along with the reputation that electric vehicles have for being slightly more expensive than similarly sized gas-powered cars goes to show that maintenance and purchasing costs can be quite pricey with electric cars.

3. You’ll have to Be Careful During Wintertime

According to USA News, the Telsa Model S, which holds the distinction of being the farthest-driving electric vehicle, can drive for over 400 miles. While you might not be able to get that kind of mileage with a different model, the coldness of the harsh winters that Canada is known for can lower your mileage in two different ways:

  1. The cold weather can hamper your battery’s performance
  2. Turning up the heat in your car can further drain your battery in an electric vehicle.

Here’s the One Thing Every Car Owner Should Do (Whether You Buy an Electric Vehicle or Not)

Whether you decide to buy an all-electric vehicle, a hybrid, or a regular car, it’s important to make sure that your auto insurance is up to date as well. Contact our team of licensed brokers or get a FREE quote for auto insurance. Don’t forget to ask if you qualify for an electric vehicle discount on your insurance!

How to Take Care of Your Mental Health During COVID-19

By Ari Rush General Info Life Insurance Oracle Info No comment

A lot of places talk about how COVID-19 has taken a financial toll on Canadians. But alongside job uncertainty and economic concern, the pandemic has also taken an emotional toll on a lot of people. And with talk of infectious variants and a third wave coming, nobody would blame you for wondering if the pandemic is ever going to end.

If you’ve been feeling down lately and the isolation has been getting to you, we’re here to help. Here are our top tips for keeping your mental health in good shape as the pandemic goes on. 

Tip #1: Try to Connect With People Through Virtual Means

If there’s one thing we’ve all been learning during the pandemic, it’s that sometimes there’s nothing warmer than the hug of a loved one. Chances are that we all have friends and family members we haven’t seen because of the pandemic. But even if you can’t pack up and spend the weekend with family like you used to, that doesn’t mean that you can’t connect on the phone or through Zoom. Try to remember that physical distancing doesn’t have to mean social distancing.

Tip #2: Do What You Can to Take Care of Yourself

For many folks, the pandemic has been a time of going back to the basics. If you’re finding yourself going stir-crazy or feeling down, now may be a good time to consider self-care activities like:

  • Being active for a few minutes of the day
  • Eating healthy home-cooked meals
  • Drinking more water and tea
  • Getting high-quality rest

It’s amazing how doing nice things for yourself can completely refresh your mindset.

Tip #3: Have a Plan Ready

It isn’t fun to think about, but the pandemic has been teaching us all a lot about how short life really is. To that end, there’s a certain peace of mind that comes with knowing that your loved ones will be taken care of in the event of your passing. 

Keep your passwords stored somewhere safe, sort out your will, and update your life insurance. Now is as good a time as any to explore quotes and put contingency plans in place.

Conclusion

The pandemic is shaping up to be the kind of event that people will be talking about for years to come. But the good news is that even though it may not be easy, you can protect your mental health during these trying times by focusing on the things that are within your control. 

Contact us to discuss your insurance needs.

Fitness Professional Insurance: What You Need to Know

By Ari Rush General Info Health Insurance Life Insurance Oracle Info No comment

As more people have stayed in and gyms have had to close, folks have been turning to fitness experts in order to trim down those extra pandemic pounds. 

But as it turns out, however, a key part of keeping your company protected is having the right insurance. We’ve put together a fitness professional insurance guide that’ll give you a solid understanding of what that looks like.

Before We Get Started

When it comes to getting business insurance as a fitness professional, there are a few general rules of thumb:

  • Individual trainers and full-scale gyms may have different insurance needs
  • Online personal trainers do still have professional risks 
  • The “right” insurance package may change depending on your current and future plans

Key Insurance Types for Fitness Professionals

1. Professional Liability Insurance

In many cases, the quest to get fit isn’t purely about the number on the scale. People who are looking to get fit are often pursuing a certain aesthetic or chasing a specific health outcome. In addition, you’re often telling clients what they should do to get the results they’re after.

If a disgruntled client takes your advice and gets hurt or doesn’t get the results they want, you could be sued. Professional liability insurance can cover the costs of your defence. 

2. Contents Insurance

Whether you’re a weightlifting expert or you’re all about helping your clients tone up, there’s one thing that all fitness professionals can agree on:

Fitness equipment is expensive. 

Weightlifting machines, treadmills, and ellipticals can all easily cost several hundred or several thousand dollars each. 

If you offer an online course or a bunch of additional fitness training videos, your computers and your cameras may also be indispensable to your business. A contents insurance policy can compensate you if an insured peril ever damages your equipment. 

3. Commercial General Liability Insurance

Gyms see a lot of foot traffic on a day-to-day basis. 

As the manager of a fitness facility, you never know when someone might trip on a weight or slip on a wet floor. That’s why one of the coverage options we offer in our yoga insurance package is commercial general liability insurance.

If you accidentally damage someone’s property or if someone gets hurt while on your property, this is a coverage option that you may need to have.

Protect Your Business with Fitness Professional Insurance 

As a fitness professional, you can protect your livelihood and your business by having up-to-date insurance. 

If you or your studio offers yoga, you can get a FREE yoga insurance quote from us. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Construction Insurance: Types of Coverages to Consider

By Ari Rush General Info Home Insurance Life Insurance Oracle Info No comment

Winter is gone, and spring is here. And with the start of the warmer weather, it’s that time of year for construction companies: That’s right. It’s building season. 

Along with securing new jobs and managing your crew, the new construction season also means that now is a good time to upgrade your insurance. To that end, here’s a list of coverage options that you may wish to consider exploring for your construction company. 

1. Commercial Property Insurance

Few professions depend on having the right equipment to the extent that construction companies do. From saws to worktables, screwdrivers, and hammers, there are more than likely a few tools you can name that your crew depends on to complete jobs.

If an insured peril damages your tools or if your inventory ever gets stolen, having to replace all of that equipment would be difficult to manage financially. Commercial property insurance makes it possible to get the coverage you need.

2. Contractors Liability Insurance

Whether you specialize in residential or commercial construction, projects can easily run for six or seven figures. That’s why lawsuits related to construction and contracting work can be very expensive to litigate. 

Sometimes, even after the work is complete, customers can be unhappy or damage can be discovered after the fact. Contractors’ liability insurance can cover the cost of damages, litigation costs, and settlements.

3. Commercial Auto Insurance

As a contractor, you spend a lot of time traveling to and from worksites. When you add all those hours up over the course of a year, that’s a lot of time spent on the road. That’s why insurance professionals will often recommend commercial auto insurance to contractors that are relying on company vehicles to get around.

4. Business Interruption Insurance

Sometimes an insured peril can put a business temporarily out of commission. And every day you spend waiting on repairs and inventory is time you’re not able to spend on the site completing projects. 

In a field where work is often cyclical, losing work during construction season can be particularly devastating. Business interruption insurance can make it possible for you to receive compensation in situations where the company is unable to operate in the aftermath of an insured peril.

Protect Your Construction Company With Top-Notch Construction Insurance

When you’re running a construction company, you’ve got a lot of things on your plate. You’ve got staff and crews to manage, projects to bid on, and discussions with developers and business partners. 

Here at Oracle RMS, we’re committed to helping construction companies like yours get the insurance you deserve. Contact us for your FREE construction insurance quote. 

How Insurers are Helping Small Business in Ontario

By Ari Rush General Info Life Insurance Oracle Info No comment

Thanks to the pandemic, 2020 was a hard year for Canadians and small businesses alike. And as a small business owner, nobody would blame you for wondering how the insurance industry has been offering support during these hard times. 

Are insurers taking action? Do insurers have any plans to roll out supports for businesses in Ontario? 

As it turns out, the insurance industry has been working on delivering practical solutions to smaller businesses. We’re going to give you the highlights of what insurers have been able to accomplish in this regard.

1. The Insurance Bureau of Canada Built a Commercial Task Force

In the wake of the pandemic, there’s no question that small businesses need support and that insurers want to offer support. But with so many different parties working to tackle the same problems, it’s difficult to get everyone on the same page.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada has created a commercial task force focused on helping small businesses plan for and mitigate future risks. In the insurance industry, an ounce of prevention is often worth a pound of cure. Through this task force, the hope is that small businesses and insurers will meet in the middle and find solutions that will help the business community come back stronger than ever after the pandemic.

2. The Industry Has Established a Helpline and Commercial Support Team

Sometimes, as a small business owner, you just want to vent and strategize with someone who understands your concerns. After all, it’s difficult to go from being a popular local establishment to watching your finances and your business suffer because of lockdowns.

With commercial insurance, your coverage choices are everything. That’s why the Insurance Bureau of Canada has put together a helpline and a support team for commercial clients. These resources help small businesses get the insurance policies they need. 

3. Insurers Are Providing Financial Support to Hospitality-Based Small Businesses

Before COVID-19, most business owners in the hospitality sector likely never thought that a worldwide pandemic would be a risk that needed to be planned for. Due to the major hit that was taken by the hospitality industry, the Insurance Bureau of Canada established the Business Insurance Action Team (BIAT) in November 2020. 

Because of these efforts, hospitality businesses that are struggling to get insurance coverage while also being squeezed by COVID-19 can apply for supports through BIAT. 

Conclusion

Here at Oracle RMS, we’re committed to helping Ontario’s small businesses protect their finances throughout the pandemic and beyond. Get your free commercial insurance quote today. We’re here to help!

Stay Safe While Using Your BBQ This Spring

By Ari Rush General Info Home Insurance Life Insurance Oracle Info No comment

Winter is almost over, and spring is here. And along with the warmer weather, the summer holidays, and the increased relaxation time, many Ontarians are looking forward to getting together and putting a few burgers on the grill.

If you’ve been craving a good old-fashioned grilled meal, then you’ve come to the right place. We’re about to give you our top tips for using your barbecue safely.

Tip #1: Inspect Your Barbecue Before Using It if It’s Been a While

Although lots of people love eating grilled food during all seasons, braving the Ontario winter cold for a bit of barbecue isn’t on most people’s to-do lists. But if your grill has been sitting dormant during the cold winter months, you’ll want to check it for damage. If you see any damaged hoses, cracks, or leaks, your grill could be too much of a fire hazard.

Tip #2: Keep Your Grill Away From Flammable Materials

You never know when a sudden breeze or a brisk wind can direct the spark that starts a fire. How can you ensure that a quick look at your cooking won’t end with your home and your patio going up in flames? Set up your barbecue at a healthy distance from any flammable structures. If you make a point of grilling in a clear and well-ventilated area while looking out for hanging branches, you can do a lot to stay safe during barbecue season.

Tip #3: Avoid Grease Buildup 

That long winter period isn’t the only time that grease can become a fire hazard. Putting too much meat in the grill or failing to examine the burners before use can also contribute to grease fires. If you look for grease before turning the gas on and then are careful throughout your grilling, however, grease buildup is a problem that’s easy to avoid.

Tip #4: Have Updated Home Insurance

Sometimes, even when you’ve done everything that’s recommended, the worst-case scenario can still happen. That’s why it never hurts to make home insurance checkups a regular part of your routine. Even if an accident occurs, your insurance can help protect your finances and the financial investment that you’ve made in your home.

Conclusion 

Whether you’re looking to purchase or renew your home insurance policy, we’re here to answer your questions.

Request your FREE home insurance quote today.