What’s New: In Brief (December 11, 2007)

The time to play up the sale of fire insurance in B.C. is during the winter holidays, based on statistics offered by BCAA Insurance.
According to Fire Prevention Canada, December generates 20 times the average monthly number of candle-related incidents.
“In fact, between December 15 and 30 alone, candle-related fires increase by a whopping 140%,” BCAA Insurance notes in a press release.
BCAA Insurance claims manager Rob Keeper says open flame is one of the leading causes of home fires, and cautions homeowners to be extra vigilant when burning seasonal candles.
The single biggest day for fire-related claims reported to BCAA Insurance last December was the 27th. Keeper speculated this may be due to people leaving an abundance of used wrapping paper or boxes lying around, or to people becoming too relaxed and complacent following Christmas feasting and festivities.
“Candles can add to the festive atmosphere, but they can also be dangerous if not used properly,” says Keeper. “The biggest mistakes people make with candles is placing them too close to flammable objects, or in areas where they can get knocked over.”

The Co-operators has formed an alliance with AGCO Corporation to offer a comprehensive package of commercial property and casualty insurance to AGCO’s agricultural equipment dealers.
AGCO Corporation, which has more than 200 independent dealers in Canada, is a global manufacturer and distributor of agricultural equipment and related replacement parts.
The Co-operators notes in a press release its alliance with AGCO “will provide Canadian AGCO Corporation agricultural equipment dealerships a one-source business insurance solution, with competitive rates, customized programs, and best-in-class service.”
Dealerships taking advantage of this new insurance coverage offered by The Co-operators will have access to:
customized coverages to meet their specific business needs;
risk management solutions to help reduce potential losses and save agricultural equipment dealers money; and
“Back to Business” claims service.