Wildfire season for 2025 has already begun in BC, and this interactive report by Graeme Bruce for CBC News outlines the early signs of another active spring and summer, particularly in Western Canada.
In 2023, British Columbia experienced its most destructive wildfire season on record. According to BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), over 2.84 million hectares of land burned, with 2,245 wildfires reported between April and October. The province was in a state of emergency for nearly a month, and more than 180,000 people were affected by evacuation orders and alerts.
Many lost homes. Many lost vehicles. And for some, the right insurance coverage wasn’t in place when they needed it most.
Wildfires Are Unpredictable—Your Insurance Shouldn’t Be
Here’s what many drivers don’t realize until it’s too late:
- Home insurance does not cover your vehicle, even if it’s parked in your garage.
- Basic ICBC Autoplan insurance does not cover wildfire damage to your vehicle.
- Only optional coverage—like Comprehensive or Specified Perils —protects your vehicle from wildfire damage, theft, vandalism, and more.
And here’s the critical part: If your area is under a fire evacuation alert or order, you may not be able to purchase new coverage. You can only renew an existing policy that already includes wildfire protection.
Have Questions? Reliance Insurance Is Here to Help
Wildfire season can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. If you’re unsure about your current coverage or want to make sure you’re protected, call Reliance Insurance. We’ll walk you through your options and help you make the best decision for your needs.
Outside the Lower Mainland? Contact us to learn more.
Understanding Your Insurance Options Before—and During—an Evacuation
When wildfires threaten your community, the last thing you want is to be scrambling to update your insurance. We’ve seen how quickly evacuation alerts can be issued and how frustrating it can be for drivers who discover—too late—that their vehicle isn’t covered. Here’s what you need to know about your options:
What You Can Do Before an Evacuation Alert/Order:
- Add coverage early: If you don’t already have Comprehensive or Specified Perils coverage, now is the time to add it. These optional coverages are what protect your vehicle from wildfire damage.
- Renew wisely: If your policy is about to expire—or expired within the last 7 days—you may still be able to renew your coverage, even during an alert. Reach out to Reliance Insurance and we’ll help you navigate the timing.
What You Can’t Do During an Evacuation Alert/Order:
Buy new coverage: Once your area is under an official evacuation alert or order, you won’t be able to purchase new wildfire protection. That window closes fast.
If Your Vehicle Is Uninsured:
You may be able to purchase a Temporary Operation Permit to move your vehicle to safety. This is a limited-use option, but it can make a big difference in an emergency. We can help you determine if this is available in your situation.
Safety Essentials For You And Your Family
If you live in a remote or threatened area of BC, here are some suggestions for keeping yourself, your family and your vehicle safe from the wildfire threat.
What to Pack: Your Emergency Document Kit
If you’re forced to evacuate, having your documents ready saves you time, stress, and money. We recommend keeping the following in a waterproof bag or your glove compartment:
- B.C. driver’s licenses, medical/ID cards
- Passports, birth certificates, marriage certificate
- Vehicle registration and Autoplan insurance documents
- Home insurance policy
- Banking and financial information
Emergency Vehicle Kit: Be Ready to Roll
If you live in a wildfire-prone area, your vehicle should be ready to go at a moment’s notice. Here’s what ICBC recommends keeping on hand.
In Your Glove Compartment:
- Emergency evacuation plan
- Copies of ID and insurance
- Local map with meeting points
- Pen, notepad, cash (small bills)
- “HELP/OK” window signs (Download here)
In Your Trunk:
- Food (ready to eat) and plenty of water
- Seasonal clothing, including extra clothing, if possible, proper footwear
- Emergency blanket or sleeping bag
- Mobile phone with GPS App installed / phone charger and battery bank
- Small battery-powered or hand-crank radio and flashlight, including extra batteries
- Small first-aid kit and personal medications
- Personal toiletries and items, such as an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
Driving During Wildfire Season
If you must drive during a wildfire event:
- Check DriveBC.ca and EmergencyInfoBC.gov.bc.ca before heading out.
- Avoid evacuation zones.
- Keep windows rolled up and use recirculated air to avoid smoke inhalation.
- Drive slowly, keep headlights on, and stay alert—especially at night when visibility is reduced.
Report a claim
If you need to report wildfire damage, you can report a claim online or by phone at 1-800-910-4222.
Ready to Renew? Let’s Make Sure You’re Covered
Don’t wait until wildfire or flood season is at your doorstep. Contact Reliance Insurance to review and renew your ICBC Autoplan policy with confidence.
Reliance Insurance proudly serves
Burnaby and the Vancouver area