How to Plan a Safe Fundraising Event
- Allison Hammons, CIC, CPIW
- Jun 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 31
Planning a safe fundraising event is crucial to ensuring that your organization’s efforts are successful and free of accidents or legal issues. Whether you’re organizing a gala, a charity walk, or a community fair, safety should be a top priority. Here are key steps to keep in mind when planning a safe fundraising event:
1. Assess Potential Risks
Before the event, conduct a thorough risk assessment. Consider potential hazards such as weather conditions, crowd control, and food safety. Identify areas that could pose risks to participants, staff, or volunteers, and develop a plan to address them.
2. Obtain Necessary Permits and Insurance
Ensure that you have all the necessary permits required for the event venue and activities. Additionally, securing event insurance is essential to protect against liability for accidents, injuries, or property damage. Event-specific coverage can help offset costs if something goes wrong.
3. Train Volunteers and Staff
All staff and volunteers should be well-trained on safety procedures, emergency protocols, and their specific roles during the event. Assign key personnel to oversee areas like first aid, security, and crowd management.
4. Set Up First Aid Stations and Emergency Plans
Always have a dedicated first aid station staffed with trained personnel. Make sure the event site has clear evacuation routes in case of an emergency and communicate these plans to your team.
5. Prioritize Security
Consider hiring professional security or working with local authorities for large events. Clear signage, barriers, and crowd control measures can help prevent accidents and ensure a safe flow of people.
By following these steps, you can create a secure environment, allowing everyone to enjoy the event and focus on your fundraising mission.
Allison Hammons, CIC, CPIW, is a risk consultant for Knight Insurance Group.
