Backyard BBQ With Kids? Don’t Forget These Family-Focused Safety Tips

Summer here in the Utica area is all about making memories—grilling burgers, chasing bubbles, and watching the kids run barefoot through the yard. A backyard BBQ is a perfect family event, but when children are involved, both fun and risk levels increase.

Whether you’re hosting your neighbors, your kids’ friends, or extended family, it’s wise to think beyond the menu and consider how your insurance coverage protects your home and guests…especially the little ones.

1. Know What Your Homeowners Insurance Covers
Standard homeowners insurance policies in New York State include personal liability coverage—a key protection if someone gets injured on your property. That could be anything from a scraped knee to a broken bone from a fall off a swing set.

Coverage often ranges from $100,000 to $300,000, but if you regularly have kids over, consider raising your limits or adding an umbrella policy for extra peace of mind.

2. Prepare Your Yard for Little Feet
Children are naturally curious, fast-moving, and not always safety-conscious. Reduce hazards before the party starts:

Walk the yard and fix loose stones, uneven bricks, or exposed nails.

• Keep the grilling area off-limits with chairs or barriers.
• Place slip-resistant mats near pools, splash pads, or outdoor water toys.
• Make sure playsets are secure and have soft ground cover beneath them.

If a child is injured while playing, your medical payments coverage (usually between $1,000–$5,000) can help cover initial expenses regardless of fault.

3. Supervision and Liability Go Hand in Hand
If you’re hosting young children, plan for active supervision—especially around pools, trampolines, fire pits, and grills. Even a shallow kiddie pool can pose a drowning risk.

Designate responsible adults to monitor specific areas throughout the event. While you may assume other parents are watching their children, as the host, you could still be held liable if something goes wrong.

4. Don’t Overlook Alcohol and Teenagers
If your BBQ includes teens and adult guests, and alcohol is present, be cautious. You could be held responsible for underage drinking or any post-party incidents involving impaired guests.

Make it clear that alcohol is for adults only and supervise accordingly. Review your policy or speak with your agent about host liquor liability coverage—it may be included, but limits vary.

5. Secure Toys, Equipment, and Valuables
With kids running around, expensive or fragile outdoor equipment (like Bluetooth speakers, yard games, or rented items) can easily be damaged. Your personal property coverage may help if items are accidentally broken or stolen, but you’ll want to understand your deductible and exclusions before the party starts.

The Bottom Line for Parents
A backyard BBQ can be a highlight of the summer for your family—but it’s also your responsibility to keep everyone safe, especially the youngest guests.

By preparing your yard, reviewing your insurance coverage, and planning for supervision, you can focus on what matters most: creating lasting memories with your kids and community.

Until next time,

Your SZW Team

SZW Insurance is your Utica area Trusted Choice™ independent insurance agent. Call us for a quote on insurance for your home, car, business, or life at 315.792.0000. Or request a quote here.