If your display involves the public, such as a community event where members of the public can spectate (whether paying for tickets or not) then you should always plan for the worst in case of an accident. Even something minor, such as a claim for burnt clothing, can be a major headache if you’re not covered by insurance.
But what if something really bad happens, such as injuries to spectators or even your own firers? Or damage to neighbouring property? Given that we live in an increasingly litigious society, insurance cover for public events is becoming almost mandatory.
You should also consider insurance for private events held at a third party location like a village hall, just in case of any problems.
In this case we mean a display by a member of the public using consumer fireworks as opposed to a professionally fired show, which we’ll cover below.
Before looking for a suitable policy it is worth checking to see if your organisation already has a blanket policy in place for firework displays. Examples over the years where our forum members have used such cover (for free or at a discounted rate) include displays for the Church of England, Parents and Teachers Associations (NCPTA), rotary clubs and The Scouts.
Failing that, you will need to look at a one-off insurance policy specifically for firework displays and aimed at non-professionals. A quick search on Google for firework display insurance brings up a number of insurers waiting to take your money. At the time of writing (mid-2020) policies appear to start from around £100, though expect it to be much higher if you have a lot of spectators.
We don’t have any personal recommendations but feel free to join our Fireworks Forum and ask there. Lots of our members stage public events each year which are covered by one-off policies.