Throwing a party this summer?

Parties and summer go hand in hand. With July 4th and summer barbecues approaching, chances are homeowners will be inviting people over for a party.

In some states, the host can be held liable if a guest is injured on the property. Homeowners may also be liable if a guest gets too rowdy and something happens. Fortunately, homeowners liability insurance may help reduce the risk of financial loss.

Sometimes parties can get out of hand – fun and games can turn into a slip or a fall. You might have trouble if a guest trips or falls down while on your property.

Here are some simple guidelines to keep in mind when hosting a party:

• Pay attention to hazards on the property that could take a visitor by surprise, such as a hole in the ground or steep steps.
• Erect barriers and/or warn people about any hazard on the property that they should avoid.
• Take special care of items on the property that may attract children, such as a swimming pool, trampoline, or swing-set; reinforce to guests that children must be accompanied by an adult in order to enjoy the fun.
• Should something happen on the property, homeowners should report it immediately to their insurance company (even if it is unknown whether or not a claim is going to be made).

While taking these steps will help keep guests safe, homeowners should contact their local agent to ensure they are adequately protected. The agent may recommend the purchase of an Umbrella Policy. Umbrella insurance is designed to give consumers added liability protection above and beyond the limits on homeowners, auto, and watercraft personal insurance policies.

For more information on this and other safety topics, contact Allstate Agent Sedrik Newbern at 847-362-0099.

Phoenix Insurance & Financial Services, Inc. is located at 711 North Milwaukee Avenue in downtown Libertyville. You can also find the agency on Facebook: www.facebook.com/phoenixinsurance and Twitter: www.twitter.com/phoenixins.