Does Your Fire Department Rent or Loan Your Meeting Hall?
Does Your Fire Department Rent or Loan Your Meeting Hall?
By
Bill Tricarico
Director, Loss Control Services
McNeil & Company, Inc.
Many Fire Departments and EMS Organizations have large meeting rooms or halls that they rent or loan to both members and non-members for various functions. This does increase the organization’s exposure to lawsuits since you are now inviting the general public onto the premises. Slips and falls are common claims. In addition, if a kitchen is utilized, the renter may have no idea how to use the commercial type stove, slicing machine, or other items which are not familiar to them. This may result in sliced fingers, electrocution, or explosion.
If you are going to include these items, someone should be assigned to meet with the renters and explain what equipment may be used and how to operate them. A poster should also be put up so the renter may refer to it for instructions when no representative of the fire department is present.
The hall and entrances should be inspected regularly for trip, slip and fall hazards. Are the floors level and even? Are carpets flat and without tears? Stairways should be free from obstructions and well lit and during the winter, snow and ice cleared.
One of the most litigious areas may be alcohol. If you sell, serve or in any other way distribute alcohol, make certain that you have all necessary permits with local or state authorities. All servers should complete an alcohol serving type class such as TIPS and abide by the lessons learned.
Your organization should have some sort of written agreement signed by the renter that favors the fire department in the event of a lawsuit. This agreement should also clearly spell out the equipment which may or may not be used, and prohibit guests from entering areas where fire apparatus and equipment are stored.
Finally, check your insurance. Be certain that you are adequately covered for such events. The policy should provide medical payments for non-members injured on your premises.
These are just a few of the many ways to be certain that your guests will have a safe and enjoyable event. Hall rental is a good way to raise funds and enhance your relationship with the community. However, one negative experience may negate all of that. Be safe when renting or loaning your hall.