Preparing for Holiday Season Liabilities in Your Martial Arts School
As the holiday season approaches, martial arts schools have unique opportunities to engage students and attract new members through special programs and events. However, these activities also come with increased liabilities. Here are essential tips for managing these liabilities and ensuring your school remains protected.
Communicate with Your Insurance Agent
Whenever you plan to hold a special event or program, it’s crucial to inform your insurance agent. Whether it’s a holiday day camp or a week-long program, ensure your insurance policy covers these activities. Jennifer Urmston, an insurance expert, emphasizes the importance of this step, particularly when new students are involved. If you held similar events the previous year and they are already included in your policy, you might not need to inform your agent again. However, it’s always better to double-check.
Include New Students in Your Coverage
Special holiday programs often attract new students. Ensure these new participants are included in your student count so they are covered under your insurance policy. This not only protects your school but also builds trust with parents, knowing their children are safeguarded.
Holiday Parties and Regular Members
If you’re planning a holiday party for your regular members, you typically don’t need to inform your insurance agent, unless you plan to serve alcoholic beverages. In such cases, check with your agent to ensure you have Host Liquor coverage on your policy. This coverage protects you if someone has an accident after consuming alcohol at your event.
Managing Holiday Weather
Holiday weather, particularly snow and ice, can pose significant risks. Ensure sidewalks and parking lots are cleared to prevent slips and falls. While landlords often handle these tasks, it’s your responsibility to ensure they are done properly. Follow up with your landlord to maintain a safe environment for your members.
The Limitations of Relying on Landlord or Homeowners Insurance
Relying solely on your landlord’s public liability insurance or your homeowners insurance is not advisable. These policies typically cover only basic liabilities, such as slips and falls on the premises. They do not cover professional liability related to martial arts instruction, personal injuries claimed by students, or issues like sexual abuse claims. Therefore, obtaining a comprehensive commercial general liability policy tailored for your martial arts school is essential.
Special Event Insurance Coverage
For holiday events where you might serve alcohol or have unique activities, ensure your policy includes specific coverage for these situations. Host Liquor coverage, for instance, is necessary if you’re serving alcohol. Always verify with your insurance agent to avoid any gaps in coverage.
Conclusion
The holiday season offers numerous opportunities for martial arts schools to engage students and grow their businesses. However, it’s essential to manage the associated risks by ensuring proper insurance coverage and communicating with your insurance agent about any special events or activities. By taking these precautions, you can create a safe and enjoyable environment for your students and protect your school from potential liabilities.
Takeaway: Ensure your holiday events and special programs are covered by your insurance policy. Communicate with your insurance agent, include new students in your coverage, and understand the limitations of relying on landlord or homeowners insurance.