Even with the best property risk-management efforts in place, a loss can still occur at your agency, and one due to fire can be particularly disruptive. PDRMA’s member “coverage” goes beyond the liability policy — to resources to help you protect facilities and claim support should a loss occur.

In 2015, Golf Maine Park District experienced a fire in its Dee Park Maintenance Garage when an overhead heater failed. “Heat sensors activated the fire alarm in the garage, which notified the fire department,” reports Executive Director John Jekot. The incident, he says, underscored the importance of keeping good inventory records for property and equipment, as well as improving housekeeping procedures...

October is fire safety month, and when it comes to prevention, PDRMA members understand the importance and value of conducting building inspections to manage the risk of fire, water intrusion and other potential events.

“We do building inspections year round at the Park District of Oak Park (PDOP),” explains Gabriele Romanucci, Human Resources Safety and Risk Manager. “And since we’re prone to flooding, we have a Rainy Day Checklist to help us stay ahead of any problems that might develop.”

Staff focuses on window well drains, basement and door drains that are below grade, and sump pumps. “The rainy-day inspections allow us to catch problems before they happen — or at least before they become bigger problems,” he adds.

Regular inspections have found damaged or vandalized electrical outlets and walk boxes in light poles that Oak Park repaired before further damage or injuries could occur. And the Rainy Day Checklist turned up minor roof leaks and drain blockages that staff was able to repair before any significant water damage occurred...

PDRMA’s 2016 Risk Management Institute is Friday, Nov. 18, at the Tinley Park Convention Center from 9 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. Join us for a variety of break-out sessions addressing current insights and challenges...

Winter offers its own risk management challenges, but PDRMA has a convenient and comprehensive way to meet them. You can access the recording of the Preparing for the Winter Season webinar, which occurred on Oct. 11, by clicking here...