KHC works with the Federation of Mountain Clubs of BC (FMCBC) to secure its insurance coverage each year.   FMCBC negotiates a block insurance program for all participating clubs and because of this we get good rates, a comprehensive coverage package, and we  also align ourselves with the same coverage that other clubs have in B.C.   This is primarily Commercial General Liability.   We will also be adding Directors and Officers Liability.

Commercial General Liability Insurance policies are designed to provide protection for claims arising out of the insured’s liability for negligent acts and/or omissions causing injury or damage thru the ownership of property, operations, sale or distribution of products as well as professional services. Coverage includes defense costs and claims settlement. A series of exclusions apply for areas either uninsurable (e.g., intentional acts) or insured through other third party liability policies (e.g., auto liability, directors and officers liability).

The activities/operations that the FMCBC, its member clubs and individual members from those clubs participate in includes, but is not limited to: hiking, backpacking, trail running, climbing, mountaineering, canoeing, kayaking, snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, snowboarding, ski touring, cross country skiing, mountain biking, horseback riding, building and maintaining trails, maintaining and operating backcountry huts, offering instructional programs, publishing guidebooks, and holding club socials and meetings.

One of the terms of the insurance program includes a requirement for each club to complete waivers for all members and guests.

A new provider will be in place this month and our rates will change accordingly, but KHC has managed its finances well and can handle a rate increase without increasing member fees.

An important detail for this new program is coverage for out-of-country events.   Although we are covered for trips/events to the USA and beyond, the deductible is quite high – $10 000 per claim.   As a result, the Board of Directors will be developing a policy for these types of events.   One event this year had a few days in the USA, but these days will no longer be part of KHC’s official events.   Our thanks to the event organizers for understanding this challenge and working with us to resolve the liability issues.

Insurance is in place to provide the Club, its Directors, its hike leaders, and its members from the challenge of legal/court costs and possibly settlements if something goes wrong during an event.    It allows the Club to organize events while protecting its volunteers.

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Doug Smith

Retired now, I get into the outdoors most days to hike, paddle, camp, snowshoe, run, walk, or explore. More information can be found at: KamloopsTrails.net.

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