Community outreach events are a cherished part of the holiday season for many fire departments. From parade escorts to tree lighting ceremonies, these gatherings help departments strengthen their ties with the community. However, departments may overlook some of the liability risks these events create. With the proper planning and fire department insurance, departments can continue serving the public without compromising safety or financial stability.
What Are the Safety Tips for Holiday Fires?
The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) reports that cooking is the leading cause of home fires, with the peak days being Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve. Departments can use these statistics to frame fire prevention messaging at community events. Sharing the tips offered by the USFA, offering free smoke alarms, and demonstrating proper procedures in the event of a cooking fire can be both engaging and educational.
When departments lead by example, they build trust and help reduce seasonal fire incidents in the process.
Common Liability Risks During Holiday Fire Department Events
Festive events often mean larger crowds, tighter spaces, and more moving parts. Each of these introduces exposures that could lead to lawsuits or costly claims. Common risks include:
- Trip-and-fall incidents: Uneven sidewalks, electrical cords, or fire truck displays can create hazards for pedestrians.
- Property damage: Equipment malfunctions during demos or parked apparatus bumping into structures can trigger third-party claims.
- Volunteer mishaps: If a community volunteer suffers an injury during setup or teardown, the department could be held responsible.
General liability insurance plays a crucial role in covering bodily injury, property damage, and medical expenses associated with these types of incidents. It also helps manage legal defense costs, allowing departments to resolve claims without straining operational budgets.
How Fire Department Insurance Protects Your Holiday Outreach Efforts
In addition to general liability, comprehensive fire department insurance packages address a broader range of risks. For example, management liability insurance protects department leaders from claims of negligence or mismanagement during events. Accident and health policies can cover injuries to firefighters or volunteers, filling the gaps that standard event insurance might not.
Planning ahead is key. Departments should review policies before the event season begins, making sure coverage limits are sufficient and that new exposures, such as borrowed equipment or temporary venues, are accounted for.
Our clients have access to the FirePlus Academy, a 24/7 online training and education platform that helps fire departments and EMS providers meet NFPA‑based and CAPCE‑accredited training requirements while monitoring compliance and credentials.
Keeping the Season Safe With Proper Coverage
Public engagement is a core part of the fire service mission, especially during the holidays. However, with increased visibility comes increased risk. Fire departments that combine outreach with proactive risk management not only protect themselves but also set a powerful example for their communities.
As you prepare for this season’s events, verify whether your fire department clients have comprehensive coverage. Get in touch with us to explore fire department insurance solutions that protect people, property, and reputations.
About Provident FirePlus
Founded in 1902, our rich history includes the creation of custom firefighter insurance benefits in 1928. Today, Provident FirePlus continues to be a pioneer in developing insurance programs for firefighters, EMS providers, municipal entities, and law enforcement. In addition, we provide Special Risks insurance for various volunteer and nonprofit groups. Give us a call today at (412) 963-1200 to speak with one of our representatives.