It’s Party Time! Safety Tips For Parties

The forecast calls for beautiful, hot summer days ahead – just in time for your backyard party! The yard is ready, and the patio, maybe you have a pool too, are you ready for all that a party entails?

Planning for a summer BBQ gathering or pool party requires far more than a guest list, food, beverages and a few games. If you like to host summer in your backyard, you are going to want to take a few extra steps in your planning to ensure you and your guests are safe and protected –  especially if you are also the owner of a pool.

BBQ Party Hosting Tips

Barbecues are a great way to start your summer celebrations. If drinking is included in your BBQ, remember this increases risks of the likelihood of someone getting injured on your property. Practice responsible hosting!

• Start with the menu – any food allergies? Preferences?
• Is alcohol on the menu too? Always serve food when serving alcohol to your guests, even if it is just snacks.
• Monitor alcohol consumption, consider serving your guests to ensure you are in control. Stop serving alcohol an hour before the party ends.
• Offer nonalcoholic options.
• Make sure your guests have a safe way home.
• Have designated drivers.
• Never serve alcohol to minors.

Pool Party Safety Tips

Photo: sheknows.com

When you own a home with a pool, or install a pool after buying your home, your insurance provider should be notified. You should extend your liability coverage to include your pool. Yes, pools increase the value of your home, but they also increase the risk of injury and the potential that you may have to file a claim, and this may also increase your insurance premiums.

Increasing your home insurance liability will provide you with the additional coverage you may need in the event something should happen to a guest while using your pool. This not only protects you from the financial implications involved with an accident, it gives you the peace of mind you need to host a summer pool party.

There are a few simple tips to ensure your pool is a safe place for you and your guests to enjoy:

• Keep fence around your pool locked, especially when it is not in use.
• Have pool rules posted and ask family and friends to follow them.
• Have a buddy system – no one swims alone!
• Keep your pool deck clean and free of pool toys at all times as guests can trip over them and injure themselves.
• Do not allow guests to consume alcohol in or around the pool.
• Always have a responsible adult watching while children swim.

If your pool party or BBQ is for a special event like a wedding reception or bridal shower, and you are planning to serve alcohol, you may be required to have a special occasions permit. Check your local alcohol and gaming commission to see if a permit is required.

Make this summer fun and memorable in your backyard – and make sure you have the right home insurance coverage that protects you and your guests. Cheers!