By Amanda Fagan, MSML, CIC, CISR
Loss Control West Team Leader
Illinois Casualty Company

With the increase in weather-related incidents, flying umbrellas may no longer be something you only see when watching Mary Poppins. When it comes to outdoor patio spaces and umbrellas, depending on usage and type of weather, a flying umbrella could become costly to not only a person, but also a business owner.

Throughout the years, Illinois Casualty Company (ICC) has seen insurance claims ranging from a couple thousand dollars to a couple hundred thousand due to personal injury and property damage from outdoor property. Outdoor spaces can be a wonderful addition to an insured’s establishment; however, the fun comes with a bit of risk.

Here are a few things to consider when utilizing outdoor spaces at your business this summer:

Is all the furniture in good condition?
Sit and relax in each piece before your customer gives it a try and falls through a cracked seat or topples over, due to a wobbly chair leg.

Is your area around the building and outdoor spaces free of clutter, old leaves, and debris?
Areas with buildup of leaves or cluttered space that is being used as makeshift storage could become a fire hazard, among other issues.

Are all public areas free of pest nests?
You wouldn’t want a patron to be stung by a bee and give you a “stinging” review on social media.

Are all umbrellas, tents, outdoor temporary awnings, and structures secured?
Flying objects can be dangerous (not only to patrons) and can cause unwanted property damage to your premise or a neighbor’s. If the outdoor property, such as a temporary tent, is non-owned, make sure to review your contract with the vendor and know your responsibility from set up to take-down, weather regulations, and all the in-between.

Are all level changes, umbrella bases, ramps, and game areas clearly marked with bright visible lines?
Slips, trips, and falls can put a damper on outdoor activities. Warning signs at eye level, roped off areas, and bright slip resistant tape are good additions to your outdoor space, as well as usable handrails on stairs and ramps.

Are all firepits and outdoor cooking apparatuses secured?
An employee should monitor and control these items without assistance from patrons. Structure should be of appropriate construction (not a repurposed burn barrel) and be located a safe distance away from any flammable structure. A metal can for ash disposal should be kept nearby, as well as a fire extinguisher. Wood storage should be kept away from all frame and/or flammable structures.

As the summer months come flying in, take a day and spruce up your outdoor space to minimize risk and maximize fun!

 

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Illinois Casualty Company’s Loss Control staff are experienced in minimizing risk and implementing outdoor safety. Illinois Casualty Company is the Pennsylvania Licensed Beverage and Tavern Assocaition’s exclusive preferred vendor for liquor liability insurance. To learn more or to find an agent near you, click here.