What’s New: In brief (January 05, 2007)

BCAA reported more than five-times the normal wind-related claim rate throughout November and December following the string of storms that pummelled the Pacific Northwest.During the two-month period the firm received nearly 600 claims of this nature with an average cost of $5,400.The most commonly reported damage included collapsed fences, roof and shingle damage, trees falling on structures and power outages causing permanent damage to electrical equipment, says a company release.

Swiss Re has launched a program, COyou2 reduce and gain, to help its employees scale back their carbon dioxide emissions. The company will offer rebates to workers who make investments that contribute to reducing the emission of greenhouse gases, particularly in relation to mobility, heating and electrical energy, says a company release.”Such measures, which vary according to regional circumstances and preferences, include low-emission hybrid cars, use of public transport, and the installation of solar panels or heat pumps.”Beginning immediately until the end of 2011, Swiss Re will rebate each employee one half of the amount invested in these measures, up to a maximum per employee of CHF 5,000 [approximately Cdn $4,745].