Is your event going out with a bang or a fizzle?
Firework season is underway: Hallowe’en parties, Bonfire Night, New Year, and many more celebrations. Whatever the reason, every event will be unique, exciting and special for guests and attendees – if all goes according to plan.
Duncan Sutcliffe, director, Sutcliffe & Co, commented: “A lot of time and effort goes into making sure events run smoothly and a firework display can be particularly memorable. However, we mustn’t forget that fireworks are dangerous and can be unpredictable, and it doesn’t take much for things to go wrong; even a change of wind direction can have a big impact on proceedings.”
This is where bespoke fireworks display insurance can help take the stress out of an event. The policy would typically cover the event organisers for damage to equipment and costs/expenses being claimed by attendees and employees that arise as a result of the event. Damage or injury due to fireworks is not normally covered under a standard insurance policy.
It is also worth considering cancellation insurance, for example if the event needs to be called off due to adverse weather conditions. The insurance will help mitigate the costs of refunding ticket sales, lost financial expenses and cost of advertising cancellation.
Duncan concluded: “Firework events are great fun if run responsibly and there is no reason to expect things to go wrong, but there are factors out of our control, such as the weather, and this is where it is reassuring to have the insurance in place.
“Another aspect to consider is whether your event will be affected by possible civil disturbance due to Brexit around this period, which is already a busy time for antisocial behaviour, arson & burglaries because of the dark nights, fireworks and people out and about?”
It is important to note, however, that firework display insurance is there as a back-up and should not be used in place of key safety procedures, such as ensuring the person responsible for the fireworks is appropriately trained, the fireworks are from a reputable vendor, and the crowds are a sufficiently safe distance from the fireworks.
If you need advice about your fireworks event, then give our team a call on 01905 21681 or contact us here