The Final Word on UberX:

As mandated by the standard Ontario Automobile Policy, when a private passenger vehicle is used as a taxicab, bus, a sightseeing conveyance or to carry paying passengers, coverage is EXCLUDED. The Financial Services Commission of Ontario has recently published a ride sharing notice on their website. For more information, visit: fsco.gov.on.ca

I would like to acknowledge Travelers Canada for the publication of this article. This content was sourced on January 27, 2016.

IBAO Comments on UberX

August 12, 2015

　

IBAO is working to raise awareness on the risks associated with ride sharing programs for both drivers and passengers. As an advocate for consumers and the conduit between the insurance company and the policyholder, brokers need to understand these risks and be prepared to answer clients’ questions correctly. UberX drivers and UberX passengers in Ontario should understand the reality of their choices when it comes to ride sharing and auto insurance coverage in Ontario.



There are a number of myths in the media that suggest that if an UberX driver or an UberX passenger are involved in a collision, their insurance coverage would be recognized. "The simple fact is that UberX is a new concept that Ontarians are embracing quickly, both as drivers and as passengers. At this time, drivers and passengers should know that there is no existing endorsement for a personal lines policy that is available today that would guarantee them coverage or protection in the event of a collision during an UberX experience. If the driver is working under a standard/basic personal auto insurance policy and they have not informed their insurer or broker that they were using their vehicle for commercial purposes, coverage would likely not be extended," said Michael Brattman, President, IBAO. "UberX drivers would be properly covered through the Facility Association under their taxi commercial auto policy. This is what is available today for drivers."

Auto insurance coverage is a complex product. When an injury occurs after a collision, it grows more complex. When you layer UberX on top of that (a grey zone between personal insurance and commercial insurance), the complexity compounds even more.

"Our position will always be to advocate for the protection of Ontario consumers. We are encouraging insurers and regulators to find coverage solutions that specifically protect ride sharing opportunists. We are also developing an education session for brokers to be released in September 2015 which focuses on how to communicate these risks to your consumers – both the passengers and the drivers. We would like to work with Uber to understand more about the coverage they say they provide to their drivers," said Brattman.

As of today, the message you need to be telling UberX drivers and UberX passengers is this: use at your own risk. It is unlikely that UberX drivers are working under their own commercial lines policy and it is simply too early for anyone to say with confidence that the coverage extended through Uber is adequate here in Ontario.
 

I would like to acknowledge IBAO for the publication of this article. This content was sourced on January 26, 2016.

Winter tire insurance discount promised for Jan. 1 in Ontario

Commitment comes as promise to reduce rates not achieved

CBC News Posted: Oct 14, 2015 2:02 PM ET Last Updated: Oct 14, 2015 2:02 PM ET

Ontario plans to require auto insurers to offer discounts starting Jan. 1, 2016 to drivers who buy and install winter tires.

Ontario drivers with winter tires on their vehicles have been promised an insurance discount starting in January, according to Finance Minister Charles Sousa.

Effective January 1, 2016, the government will require all private insurers to offer discounts to people who buy and install winter tires, the Ministry of Finance said in a release.

The announcement today reflects a plan originally introduced in the provincial budget in April.

Winter tires "enhance safety and reduce the likelihood of collisions by improving traction, braking and handling in frost, snow, slush and under cold and icy conditions," the release stated.

The provincial government has been under fire for not meeting its pledge to reduce auto insurance rates by 15 per cent this fall. 

• Insurance rates up, despite Liberal pledge
• Ontario drivers overpaid $840M for auto insurance, study says

Earlier this month, Sousa named former WSIB head David Marshall as an auto insurance adviser "to identify additional opportunities for auto insurance reform," according to a government release.

I would like to acknowledge CBC News for the publication of this article. This content was sourced on January 26, 2016.

Snow Shoveling Safety Tips

When the driveway and walkways are coated in a thick blanket of snow, it is time to get a shovel out for what some consider to be a dreaded chore. But before you tackle the first snowfall of the season, take some time to read these safety snow shoveling tips to help avoid any potential injuries.
Snow shoveling can lead to a number of health risks for many people, from back injuries to heart attacks. The mix of cold temperatures and physical exertion increases the workload on the heart,¹ which may increase the risk of a heart attack for some. According to the American Heart Association, even walking through heavy, wet snow can place strain on your heart.
The following tips can help keep you safer when you set out to shovel:

• Warm up. Warm your muscles before heading out to shovel by doing some light movements, such as bending side to side or walking in place.
• Push rather than lift. Pushing the snow with the shovel instead of lifting can help reduce the strain on your body. When lifting snow, bend your knees and use your legs when possible.
• Choose your shovel wisely. Ergonomically-designed shovels can help reduce the amount of bending you have to do.
• Lighten your load. Consider using a lighter-weight plastic shovel instead of a metal one to help decrease the weight being lifted.
• Hit the pause button. Pace yourself and be sure to take frequent breaks. Consider taking a break after 20 to 30 minutes of shoveling, especially when the snow is wet.
• Consider multiple trips. Consider shoveling periodically throughout the storm to avoid having to move large amounts of snow at once.
• Keep up with snowfall. Try to shovel snow shortly after it falls, when it is lighter and fluffier. The longer snow stays on the ground, the wetter it can become. Wet snow is heavier and harder to move.
• Wear layers. Dress in layers and remove them as you get warm to help maintain a comfortable body temperature.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated while shoveling.

A national study² found that the most common shoveling-related injuries were to the lower back. Cardiac-related injuries account for only 7% of all injuries, but they were the most serious in nature. If you do not exercise on a regular basis, are middle-aged or older, or have any health conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, you should check with your doctor before doing any strenuous shoveling. Consider using a snow blower or snow removal service as an alternative means of snow removal.

Snow and Ice Removal Requirements

Snow and ice not only pose a potential risk to you but also to others. As a property owner, you are responsible for making a reasonable effort to keep public walking areas around your property clear of snow and ice. Pre-treating your walkways and other paved surfaces with an anti-icing product can help make snow and ice removal easier.
Consider stocking up on ice melt in advance, as it sometimes sells out during long winters. You can store unused ice melt in an airtight container, out of reach from children and pets. Be aware that rock salt can damage brick, stone, asphalt and concrete walkways.
Be sure to check your local codes and ordinances regarding snow and ice removal requirements.


Sources:
¹ American Heart Association, http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Affiliate/Shoveling-Snow-Health-Hazards_UCM_426562_Article.jsp
² Nationwide Children's, http://www.nationwidechildrens.org/news-room-articles/new-national-study-finds-11500-emergency-department-visits-nearly-100-deaths-related-to-snow-shoveling-each-year?contentid=86424



I would like to acknowledge Travelers Canada for the publication of this article. This content was sourced on January 26, 2016.

Should you buy rental car insurance?

While economical, declining insurance coverage when renting a car may not always be the best choice.

Thinking of renting a car? Whether you settle on the compact or splurge for the SUV, you may have a more important decision to make before you get to the counter: whether to purchase rental car insurance.

It’s a difficult decision, given the fact that you may already be covered through your existing car insurance or your credit card. Rental car insurance, also known as optional vehicle protection or loss-damage waiver can cost as much as $22 per day and shifts liability for collision damage from the person renting the car back to the car rental company. It will generally kick in if the car is vandalized or stolen as well. The other “accept or decline” decision involves liability insurance, which usually provides protection for up to $1 million and costs about $10 a day over the rental charge. Most major credit card providers offer rental insurance to cardholders, but often they only make it available to higher-level members, so check with your credit card company first. Even then, credit cards usually cover damage to loss or the rented vehicle, not for other cars, persons, or property.

Generally your existing auto insurance will cover you when your rent a car, provided you are using it for recreation and not for business. In other words, running about town shouldn't be a problem, but renting a vehicle that helps you earn a living might be. The type of vehicle you rent will also affect your coverage. If you’re renting a cargo van to move someone back to school, for instance, or picking up supplies for the garden, it’s unlikely that your personal or credit card policy will cover you. If your existing car insurance policy includes collision and comprehensive coverage, then this should also cover the rental as well, but only within the limits of your current coverage. If you have dropped comprehensive or collision coverage from your insurance on your older car, you would be exposed if your rental car is stolen or damaged in an accident.

During an accident on a rental, there are a couple things to keep in mind:

·         Your insurance coverage deductible applies to the rental like if it was your own vehicle.  You are responsible for the deductible amount so consider is the “per day” cost of the rental coverage is going to amount more than your deductible.

·         You’re exposed if you are renting a vehicle while your insured vehicle is also on the road.

·         Keep in mind your own coverage limitations because they will transfer to the rental vehicle as well.

·         When driving across the border, as yourself if your coverage extends across with you.

By accepting the rental coverage at the counter, you avoid all of this. Your insurance company won’t generally be notified since it’s actually not involved in your accident on the rental.

Canada Not-For-Profit Corporations Act

All Not-for-Profit (“NFP”) organizations incorporated under the Canada Corporations Act, part II, must transition to the Not-for-Profit Corporations Act (“NFP ACT”) by October 17, 2014. Those NFP’s created after October 17, 2011 would have already been formed under the new NFP Act and no further action will be required. If a NFP, formed before October 17, 2011 does not transition to the NFP Act by October 17, 2014, Corporations Canada will, upon first giving written notice to the NFP and to each of its directors, dissolve that entity. Readers are encouraged to consult legal advice on the conversion process and the specific regulations under the NFP Act.

Financial Reporting Considerations

Under the NFP Act, each NFP will be classified as either, soliciting or non-soliciting. A soliciting NFP would have received more than 10,000 from public sources, including public donations, federal or provincial governments, or other conduit entities in its last financial year.

For financial reporting purposes, the NFP Act further separates NFP’s into two categories. Designated NFP’s are those with gross annual revenues for its last financial year that is no more than $50,000 and non-soliciting NFP’s with gross annual revenues for its last completed financial year that is equal to or less than $1 million thresholds.

	Soliciting			Non-Soliciting
Annual Revenue for last financial year	Designated with revenues of $50,000 or less	Non-designated with revenues of more than $50,000 and up to $250,000	Non-Designated with revenues of more than $250,000	Designated with revenues of $1 Million or less	Non-designated with revenues of more than $1 million
Level of financial review	A review engagement unless a unanimous resolution has been passed requiring a compilation or an ordinary resolution for an audit	Must have an audit unless a special resolution has been passed to require a review engagement	Must have an audit engagement	A review engagement unless a unanimous resolution has been passed requiring a compilation or an or an ordinary resolution for an audit engagement	Must have an audit engagement

General Outline of steps involved in the conversion to the Canada Not-for-Profit corporations Act:

•        Review of the NFP’s existing letters patent and by-laws by the board members. These documents will have to be reviewed by the board of directors to insure they are in compliance with the NFP Act. Copies of the NFP’s existing documents are also available from corporations Canada if the NFP is not able to locate them.

• Prepare articles for continuance – These articles will be attached to the certificate of continuance that is issued to the NFP by Corporations Canada. Existing federally incorporated NFP’s do not have to pay a filing fee to obtain a Certificate of Continuance.

• Update by-laws – As a result of the extreme regulation of the NFP Act, there are only two by-law provisions that are mandatory under the NFP Act. At a minimum, NFP’s by-laws need to address the conditions required for memberships and notice of meetings to members who are entitled to vote at the meeting.

• Get members approval – A meeting of members will generally need to be held as part of the transition process. The NFP Act requires that the Articles of Continuance be approved by a special resolution of members, which is a resolution that is passed by at least two-thirds of the votes cast at a meeting.

This informational piece has been brought with acknowledgement to the Williams and Partners Newsletter, Summer 2014 

The Increasing Risk of Water Damage

Water Damage is on the rise

Water Damage has now surpassed fire as the leading cause of personal property claims. It is estimated that, on average, the Canadian insurance industry pays about $1.7 billion per year in claims due to water damage, and here is why:

·         Changing weather, unpredictable weather patterns

·         Increased precipitation

·         Aging municipal structures (water and sewer pipelines)

·         Home improvement trends, i.e. basement family rooms

·         Increased use of hot tubs, dishwashers and other operating appliances

Home insurance was created when fire was the major cause of loss, and homes did not have finished basements with expensive furnishings as they often do today. There are possible ways to save on your home insurance’s water damage premium if applied correctly:

·         Keeping an unfinished basement can save on water damage or water escape premiums

·         A tank less water heater can impact savings

·         A hot water tank that is less than 6 years old can also save on your premium

·         Installing an automatic water shut-off valve and sensors

·         A professionally installed sump pump or backwater valve can save on water back-up or water escape premiums

Flood vs. Sewer Backup/Water Escape Backup Coverage: What you should know

A 2004 survey conducted for the Insurance Bureau of Canada found that nearly 61% of Canadians mistakenly believe that their home insurance provides coverage for overland flooding. The truth of the matter is that the home insurance currently offer to Canadians regardless of where they live does not cover storm surges and overland flooding.

Too much water in urban areas poses a different risk. Sewer back-up occurs when the city municipal drainage system overflows and sends water back through the pipes and into your home. This may happen for a variety of reasons, but the most common is a great deal of water from rainfall or snow melt overwhelming the system.

Sewer back-up/water escape coverage is available for purchase as an add-on to an existing home insurance policy. As with any optional coverage, it is subject to the underwriting guidelines set out by your insurer, so please contact us at Sturino & Associates Insurance Brokers Ltd to make sure you are protected.

A Few Tips on How to Prevent Water Damage

·         Backwater Valves should be installed by a professional plumber, and should allow acces for regular maintenance.

·         Disconnect all downspouts connected to the municipal sewer system.

·         Make sure downspouts extend at least 6 feet (where possible) from exterior walls and drain away from the house.

·         Replace aging fixtures, tubs and toilets.

·         Ensure the home is checked during absences, especially during the heating season.

·         Consider switching to a tank less water heater.

Many municipalities have programs in place to help deal with sewer bac-up/water escape issues. Please contact us or stop by for additional resources and information on how to prevent water damage.

Sturino & Associates Insurance Brokers Ltd.

7 Jopling Avenue South

Etobicoke, ON M9B 3P4

416-231-9980

Sturino@bellnet.ca

www.facebook.com/SturinoAndAssociatesBrokers

Source: Insurance Bureau of Canada – Telling the Weather Story

UPCOMING ELECTION

As we approach the October 27th election date, there is a couple things to notice about the procedure. Please make sure to remember these tips in order to enact on your civil duty.

Who Can Vote

You can vote in Toronto’s municipal election if you are:

• a Canadian citizen; and
• at least 18 years old; and
• a resident in the City of Toronto; or
• a non-resident of the City of Toronto, but you or your spouse own or rent property in the City; and
• not prohibited from voting under any law

You may only vote once in the City of Toronto municipal election regardless of how many properties you own or rent within the City. You must vote in the ward where you live.
An owner or tenant of non-residential property, or their spouse, is not eligible to vote for School Board Trustee.

Terms you may need help understanding

• As a resident elector
  • Your residence is where you live. If you live in a municipality, then you are eligible to vote in that municipality's election. You are only allowed to have one residence.
• As a non-resident elector
  • If you live in one municipality, and own or rent property in another municipality, you are eligible to vote in each municipality's election.
• As the spouse of a non-resident elector
• If your spouse qualifies as a non-resident elector in a municipality, then you can also vote in that municipality's election. 

Students

If you are a student and consider your "home" to be the place where you live when you are not attending school, which means you plan on returning there, then you are eligible to vote in both your "home" municipality and in the municipality where you currently live while attending school. If you are a student attending school in another city, please check with the City Clerk of that municipality to find out what your voting options are.
As a student and a resident of the City of Toronto, if you are unable to vote in the 2014 Municipal Election, you may appoint another elector as Proxy to vote on your behalf. Find out more about appointing a Proxy.

Who Can Vote in a School Board Election

In order to vote in a school board election you must be 18 years of age or older, and a Canadian citizen. If you are a resident of municipality, you are eligible to vote for school board trustee. If you are the owner or tenant (or spouse of an owner of tenant) of residential property in a municipality, you are eligible to vote for school trustee. Note: school boards can cover a large area of a municipality. You are only allowed to vote for the same school board once.
If you are eligible to vote in a municipality because you are the owner or tenant (or spouse of an owner or tenant) of a commercial property there, you are not eligible to vote for school trustee.
There are four different kinds of school boards in Ontario:

English-language public school board

This is the default - unless you are qualified to vote for a separate or French board, you will vote for the English public school board in your area.

English language separate school board

You must be Roman Catholic, and you must be a separate school board supporter or the spouse of a separate school board supporter. If your spouse is a Roman Catholic and you are not, you are not eligible.

French language public school board

You must be a French language rights holder, and you must be a supporter (or the spouse of a supporter) of the French language public school board.

French language separate school board

You must be a Roman Catholic and a French language rights holder, and you must be a supporter (or the spouse of a supporter) of the French separate school board. If your spouse is a Roman Catholic and you are not, you are not eligible.

"Supporter" refers to which school board the school portion of your property taxes goes to. The default is the public school system. In order to be a separate school supporter you must direct your taxes to the separate school system. Contact the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (1-866-296-6722) for more information.

Who Cannot Vote

You are prohibited from voting on voting day if you are:

• a person serving a sentence of imprisonment in a penal or correctional institution
• a corporation
• a person acting as executor or trustee or in another representative capacity, except as a voting proxy
• a person convicted of a corrupt practice described in section 90(3) of the Municipal Elections Act, 1996

Identification is needed when you go to vote. Remember to bring:

• One piece of identification showing your name and qualifying (Toronto) address

Your voter information card cannot be used as a piece of identification. View the complete list of acceptable identification.

• If you do not have acceptable ID, but your name is on the voters' list you will be required to sign a Declaration of Identity to receive a ballot.
• If you do not have acceptable ID, and are not on the voters' list, you will be asked to return with your ID in order to receive a ballot.

The Voters' List

Get on the List!
Being on the City of Toronto voters' list ensures that you will receive the Voter Information Card (VIC) that tells you when and where to vote. Having your VIC will speed up your time spent at the voting place.

What is the voters' list and how does it get made?

The voters' list is a list of eligible electors in the City of Toronto.
The Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) is responsible for preparing the preliminary list of electors for each municipality and school board during an election year. It is MPAC's 'Municipal Property Assessment database' of both property owners and tenants that is used to prepare this preliminary list. The preliminary list of electors aids Election Services in the preparation of the final voters' list for election day. This preliminary list of electors is sent to Election Services and beginning September 2, the Revision Period begins. At this time an elector may add their name, change their information or delete their name from the voters' list. During the revision period the voters' list is available for viewing at the City Clerk's Office locations Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

How to check the voters' list
Eligible electors can check that they are on the voters' list by using the MyVote tool or by calling 416-338-1111 (TTY 416-338-0889). To update their information eligible electors can download and complete a Voters' List Amendment Application and submit in person to one of the City Clerk's Office locations or by mail to 89 Northline Road. Full submission instructions are on the form.

• • Voters List Amendment Application (PDF)
  • Demande de modification de la liste électorale (PDF)

You may also add your name to the voters' list at the voting place when you go to vote. You will be asked for identification showing your name and qualifying Toronto address.

Accessible Elections

One of the most important mandates of the City Clerk's Office is to ensure that elections are accessible to all. From providing equipment and technology that allows private and independent voting, to ensuring that our voting places are accessible. Find out more about the Clerk's policy on Providing Service to People with Disabilities.
"There should be no hierarchy of citizenship when it comes to voting in Canada: no second class voters."
(Canadian Human Rights Tribunal: Hughes, James Peter v. Elections Canada)

Accessibility Plan

The Election Accessibility Plan supports and strengthens the City's commitment to respond to the needs of persons with disabilities.
The focus of this Plan is to ensure that electoral services are accessible to all electors and candidates, to identify and eliminate barriers for persons with disabilities and to create a positive voting experience.
The City Clerk's Office will continue to learn, develop and adjust our approaches in order to meet the needs of persons with disabilities. The review of accessibility issues and initiatives and addressing barrier prevention or removal is an ongoing practice. This Plan will be improved and updated as new opportunities are identified or become available.
Highlights of services available to electors with disabilities can also be found under Special Services for Voters.
Below this section, you can find our strategy and initiatives to make elections accessible to all.

Aviso importante!!

Programa de Medidores de Agua

El Ayuntamiento de Toronto está poniendo en marcha un programa obligatorio de medidores de agua en todo Toronto e instalará o mejorará los medidores de agua en su zona. Este programa asegurará la continua precisión de sus facturas del agua y mejorará las eficiencias de las lecturas de los medidores.

• Este programa es obligatorio para todas las viviendas de Toronto, tal y como ha sido aprobado por el Ayuntamiento, de conformidad con el Código Municipal de la Ciudad de Toronto, Capítulo 851, Suministro de agua.
• La instalación o el medidor de agua son gratis para los propietarios de las viviendas.
• Los instaladores necesitarán tener acceso al interior de su vivienda.
• Una persona de 18 años de edad o mayor debe estar presente durante la instalación.
• La instalación durará 90 minutos para los clientes que no tienen actualmente un medidor de agua (clientes de tarifa fija) y 30 minutos para los clientes que ya tienen medidores de agua.

Pueden pedirse citas llamando al: 416-23-METER(416-236-3837) o en línea en

toronto.ca/watermeterprogram. Si es necesario, hay intérpretes disponibles durante el horario del centro de llamadas para asistirle, por favor pida un intérprete cuando hable con un(a) operador(a). Nuestro sitio Web también contiene información en este idioma.

Horario de la cita de instalacion - Lunes a Viernes:

• Dia - de 8am a 12pm
• Tarde - de 12pm a 4pm
• Noche - de 4pm a 8pm

Horario de la cita de instalacion - Sabado y Domingo:

• Tarde - de 12pm a 4pm
• Noche - de 4pm a 8pm

Todos los propietarios de viviendas recibirán el mismo medidor de agua (del tamaño aproximado de un balón de fútbol), que tiene una unidad transmisora inalámbrica aparte (de aproximadamente 15 cm por 10 cm por 5 cm) montada cerca. Todos los datos enviados están protegidos y contienen sólo el número de serie del medidor de agua y los datos sobre consumo. No se transmite ninguna información identificable. El medidor de agua se colocará justo después de la llave de paso principal, o si usted ya tiene un medidor de agua, se instalará en el lugar donde se encuentra su antiguo medidor. Neptune Technology Group, bajo contrato con el Ayuntamiento, realizará todas las mejoras e instalaciones.

Por favor compruebe su llave de paso principal y asegúrese de que esté funcionando correctamente antes de pedir una cita. Si no sabe cómo hacerlo, o si la llave está defectuosa, informe al operador cuando concierte su cita. 

Los instaladores deben poder tener acceso a su llave de paso principal (y al medidor de agua

existente, si tiene uno). Si alguno de ellos está obstruido por una pared, su instalador, tras consultar con usted, puede cortar una abertura para tener acceso. Los propietarios de viviendas pueden elegir crear su propio acceso cortando ellos mismos una abertura de 48 cm por 38 cm. Puede solicitarse una tapa o panel de acceso para ocultar el agujero después de la instalación. No se cobra por el trabajo realizado durante la instalación o por la tapa o panel de acceso.

Water Meter Program

We are proud to advise you as part of our ongoing insurance information program, specifically surrounding the subject of water, the following public service announcement for the city of Toronto.
The following piece of information highlights steps and procedures that must be followed in order to adapt to the new water reading system. This is also an ideal time to check the water shut off valve in your home or office to insure that it is fully operational.
This service is provided at no cost, and to the best of our understanding, its mandatory. You can direct your calls and inquiries to the numbers outlined on the following piece of information provided by the city of Toronto.

The Program

The City of Toronto is implementing a mandatory water meter program that will replace or install new automated meters in every home and business in the city, to provide an equitable system for all Toronto Water customers.
 The new system will help to keep better track of water consumption across the city, detect water loss more quickly and eliminate the need for City staff to go to homes to obtain water meter readings. It will also provide environmental benefits.
The program will be rolling out on a ward-by-ward basis. Residents will be notified by mail when installations begin in their wards.

A New Water Reading System

Your water meter will be part of the City's new automated reading system. This new technology will integrate all water meter reading, data storage and billing across the City of Toronto into one seamless system. Once installed, each water meter across the city will send data, several times a day, to a series of collection units. The data is then sent to a central server, which allows for fast, secure access and storage of all information.

All data contains only the water meter serial number and consumption data. No identifiable homeowner information is transmitted. The radio frequency used by the transmitter is a licensed frequency on which only water meters can operate.
Under the new system, all customers will pay for the water they actually use. The City will provide meters to those who were previously on a flat rate system and replace old existing meters with more efficient and up-to-date technology. Being aware of water use - and therefore being able to use water more efficiently - leads to benefits for all Torontonians.

About your free installation appointment

Appointments can be made by calling 416-23-METER (416-236-3837) or online at: Toronto.ca/watermeterprogram. Installations will take from 30 to 90 minutes and someone 18 years or older must be present. There are three different time blocks for appointments Monday to Friday as followed:

• Morning block 8am to 12pm
• Afternoon block 12pm to 4pm
• Evening block 4pm to 8pm

Two additional weekend appointment blocks are also available as followed:

• Morning block 9am to 1pm
• Afternoon 1pm to 6pm

Prior to the installation please verify that your water main shut-off is working properly. If you are unsure how to do this, or the valve is faulty, please inform our operators when scheduling your appointment.

• Only a Neptune installer can upgrade your water meter, and they will arrive at your home with photo ID and in uniform.
• No installer will ask for any money at the door.
• All installations will be done without charge to homeowners.
• All installers are certified and trained to install water meters as per Ontario standards WMI-08.
• The installation will take approximately 90 minutes for new meter installations and 30 minutes for homeowners with existing meters.
• Homeowners can call 416-23-METER (416-236-3837) to verify the identity of an installer. Operators will have access to all installer information, including a photo.

Stringent mandate on Ship Owner’s Liability rules for pollution insurance as voted by House of Commons.

A billed passed on September 18^th of 2014 that could mandate strict rulings on liability and compulsory insurance on ship owners, as well as indemnification of airlines and aviation firms in case of losses incurred from acts of war and terrorism.

If accepted by Senate, bill C-3 would become a new called the ‘Aviation Industry Indemnity Act’, and it would have an impact on laws like the ‘Marine Liability Act’, the ‘Canada Shipping Act’, the ‘Marine Liability Act’, and other acts where hazard components and pollution might be a factor.

Paraphrasing Transport Minister Lisa Raitt on the May 8^th reading of the bill, as of today ship owners are not held to strict liability measures; it is up to the victims to prove fault of negligence on part of the owner of the vessel. These amendments would alleviate the burden carried by victims and make the compensation available guaranteed.

The federal government is proposing to implement within the bill certain provisions from the HNS convention, where it stipulates that the owner of the vessel at the time of the incident “shall be liable for damage caused by any hazardous and noxious substances in connection with their carriage by sea on board the ship” under certain conditions.

Another provision of Bill C-3 would let the federal transport minister “Undertake to indemnify one or more aviation industry participants – or one or more classes of aviation industry participant – against their loss of damage, or liability for loss or damage, that is caused by an event”

The act defines “event” as either “an act of unlawful interference with an aircraft, airport or air navigation facility, including an act of terrorism” or “an act or omission in the course of armed conflict, war, invasion, hostilities, civil war, revolution, rebellion, insurrection, an application of martial law, a usurpation or attempted usurpation of power, a civil commotion or a riot.”

In its definition of “aviation industry participants,” Bill C-3 includes: air carriers; NAV Canada; contractors providing air navigation products and services; airport owners and operators. It also applies to suppliers who “directly support the operation of aircraft from an airport,” such as: freight forwarders; airport security organizations; contractors who maintain and clean aircraft; and contractors who load and unload passengers, baggage and cargo.

Members of the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) expressed several misgivings about C-3 but indicated they would support it because it’s an improvement over the status quo.

"In a conflict situation, if airlines stop flying to certain regions for insurance purposes, humanitarian aid might be compromised, as it may no longer be able to get there," said Christine Moore, NDP MP for Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Quebec, on Sept. 18. "It might take considerably longer for aid to get there when humanitarian workers have to land in countries that are much further away and travel the rest of the route by land. Providing compensation to the airlines might help keep certain flights to risk areas so that the people can continue to benefit from the humanitarian help they need."

 

Some opposition MPs criticized the bill on the grounds that it does not impose on ship owners a higher amount of strict liability and for not amending the bill to prevent Canadian taxpayers from being on the hook for damages, from spills at sea, of greater than $500 million. The bill underwent hearings last March by the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, but was returned to the Commons with no amendments from the original version tabled in October, 2013.

 

"The liability scheme that was created for this talked about ship owners’ liability limited to $230 million," said Glenn Thibeault, NDP MP for Sudbury, Ont. on Sept. 18. "Damages in excess of ship owners’ liability were to be paid by an international fund, which is that HNS fund, up to a maximum of $500 million."

 

The content was sourced on Sept 19, 2014 by Canadian Underwriter.ca

http://www.canadianunderwriter.ca/news/house-of-commons-votes-to-mandate-strict-liability-pollution-insurance-for-ship-owners/1003261954/

 

Newfoundland judge dismisses moose vehicle collision class action lawsuit

By: The Canadian Press 2014-09-20

ST. JOHN'S, N.L. – A judge in Newfoundland and Labrador has dismissed a class-action lawsuit that claimed the provincial government was negligent by failing to do enough to protect drivers from moose-vehicle collisions.

Provincial Supreme Court Judge Robert Stack delivered his decision Friday, saying the provincial government was not liable for the collisions and implemented an appropriate accident-prevention policy.

Stack's ruling also says that one of the plaintiffs' key witnesses, wildlife expert Dr. Tony Clevenger, was biased, unreliable and provided misleading information.

The class-action lawsuit included people who were seriously injured since 2001 and several estates of those who have been killed.

Ches Crosbie, the lawyer representing the plaintiffs, had argued the province knew for at least 10 years that moose pose a hazard on the highways but did not decide on a specific policy to reduce that risk.

Crosbie issued a statement Friday saying the decision was a ''moral victory'' for the plaintiffs because the government has responded to the lawsuit by taking action to reduce moose-vehicle collisions.

This content was sourced on Sept 19, 2014 by Canadian Underwriter.ca

http://www.canadianunderwriter.ca/news/newfoundland-judge-dismisses-moose-vehicle-collision-class-action-lawsuit/1003262586/

 

A well developed Fire Escape Plan could save your family

If a fire occurred in your home today, would your family get out safely?

Everyone must know what to do and where to go when the smoke alarm sounds. Take a few minutes with everyone in your household to make a home fire escape plan, following these steps:

Draw a floor plan of your home

Use a grid notebook to draw a plan for each level of your home and include all possible emergency exits. Draw in all the doors, windows, and stairways. this will show you and your family all possible escape routes at a glance. Include any features such as the roof of a garage or porch, that would help in escape.

Show two ways out of every room, if possible

The door will be the main exit from each room. However, if the door is blocked by smoke or fire, identify an alternate escape route, which could be a window. Make sure that all windows can open easily and that everyone knows how to escape through them safely. if windows have security bars, equip them with quick releasing devices.

Does anyone need help to escape?

Decide in advance who will assist the very young, older adults, or people with disabilities in your household. A few minutes of planning will save valuable seconds in a real emergency.

Choose a meeting place outside

Choose a meeting place a safe distance from your home that everyone will remember. A tree, street light, or a neighbor's home are all good choices. In case of a fire, everyone should head to this meeting place so you and your family is all accounted for.

Call the fire department outside your home

Don't waste valuable seconds calling the fire department from inside your home. Once you have safely escaped, call the fire department from a cell phone or a neighbor's home.

Practice your escape

Review the plan with everyone in your household and walk through all the escape routes. Make sure all the exits are practical and easy to use and practice so you wont hesitate as your escape routes may be quickly blocked by smoke or flames.

REMEMBER

• Plan two ways out of every room if possible
• Once out always stay out - never re-enter a burning building
• Hold a fire drill twice a year

If you live in a high-rise apartment building, contact the property manager or superintendent for information on your building's fire safety plan. 

At Sturino & Associates we want you to get the most up to date information and cater to all of your insurance needs. for more information call us at 416-233-8252 or drop by locally at 7 Jopling Avenue S. Etobicoke, ON.

H.F.S.T. (Home Fire Safety Tips)

Weather you are a brand new home owner or have owned your home for a few years now, it is always important to set down some prevention initiatives for your home. These initiatives can make a difference when disaster strikes.

At Sturino & Associates, we want to make sure that you and your family are aware of the best practices to protect your investment, the following are some tips to prevent, detect, and escape in case of a fire at your home.

Prevention

• Ensure that all matches and lighters are out of the sight and reach of children
• Teach young children not to touch matches or lighters
• Always stay in the kitchen when you are cooking
• keep children at least one meter from the stove
• If you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, don't use the stove
• Always blow out candles before leaving a room
• If anyone is the home smokes, smoke outside
• Ensure that you have no overloaded electrical outlets or circuits
• Extension cords must be used only as a temporary connection
• Ensure that items that can burn easily are at least one meter away from space heaters or any ignition source

Detection

• Ensure working smoke alarms are installed on every story of your home and outside all sleeping areas - It's the law and the responsibility of every homeowner and every landlord!
• For extra protection, install a smoke alarm in every bedroom
• Install smoke alarms with a "hush" feature to silence nuisance alarms - never remove batteries of disconnect smoke alarms
• Use of Photoelectric smoke alarms may reduce the frequency of nuisance alarms outside the kitchen and bathroom
• Ensure a carbon monoxide alarm is installed outside of sleeping areas in homes with a fuel burning appliance or attached garage - It's the law and the responsibility of every homeowner and every landlord!
• Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month
• change smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries annually and whenever the lo-battery warning sounds 
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms have a limited lifespan. In general, replace smoke alarms that are more than 10 years old and carbon monoxide alarms that are more than 7 years old. Check with the alarm manufacturer or the manufacturer's instructions for complete details
• Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing, testing, maintaining and replacing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Escape

• Develop a home and fire escape plan and practice with the entire family - You may have less than one minute to escape a fire emergency
• Keep all exits at home clear and easy to use

Countdown Celebrations - Toronto2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games

As we get closer to the Pan Am/Parapan games here in Toronto and we are gearing up with a couple celebrations. on July 11th and July 12th, 2014 there will be PANAMANIA at Nathan Philips square with a free event for the whole family.

• Athlete appearances
• Pan American foods
• Fireworks
• The unveiling of the Cisco TORONTO 2015 Countdown Clock

   INVITES YOU TO THE

For more information click here

DFDDDGFSDG

Crucero de la Independencia de Colombia

Durante el último par de años la Casa Cultural Colombiana, una organización sin ánimo de lucro para conocimiento cultural Colombiano en Toronto, ha sido responsable de la creacion de una serie de cruceros alrededor del puerto de Toronto alrededor del 20 de julio de cada año, con la misión de celebrar el Día de la Independencia Colombiana. Cada año los cruceros son un éxito debido a factores como los espectáculos en vivo de baile, gastronomía y bebidas típicas de Colombia, bandas en vivo, sorteos, concursos, y una pista de baile para que todos disfruten.

Al Crucero del año pasado vinieron aproximadamente 600 personas  a bordo del buque Espíritu del Norte, donde el evento se convirtió en un punto de encuentro para muchos colombianos de toda la GTA. El crucero sirvió como una forma de entretenimiento para muchos otros ciudadanos de Canadá, Estados Unidos, España, Francia, Polonia, y varios países de América Latina que compartieron y celebraron con la comunidad Colombiana en Toronto. 

Usted esta invitado a bordo del buque Northern Spirit el Domingo, 20 de julio 2014 en la 207 de Queens Quay West (Waterfront Toronto).

Los boletos se pueden comprar por $40 cada uno en la oficina de Sturino and Associates ubicado en 7 Jopling Avenue S. Etobicoke, ON M9B 3P4 con efectivo o cheque. Usted puede comprar sus boletos con anticipación a través de una transferencia de dinero por correo electrónico a ron gillis@sympatico.ca, pero asegúrese de incluir sus datos para confirmar al momento de entrega. Para boletos de grupo de 20 y por encima me aseguraré para concertar la entrega.

Para más información, llámenos al 416-233-8252 o pase por 7 Jopling Avenue South de Lunes a Viernes 9am to 5pm.