BCAA

24 BCA A .COM SUMMER 2018 Yutacar/Unsplash, Stocksy Party hosts should monitor alcohol consumption and ensure guests have safe rides; (right) trampolines are high-risk features that may put hosts at risk of an injury lawsuit. So, what kind of host are you? 9–15: Low risk. You keep it low-key, and that means your risk is low, too. But remember: even for something like a quiet board game night, renters must keep their homes in a good state of repair, serve food in a safe and sanitary manner and protect their guests from obvious risks. At the end of the day, you're still responsible for them. 16–21: Medium risk. You throw the odd raucous shindig, but you also take steps to protect your guests, and yourself. Up your game this summer by staying on top of maintenance, clearly informing visitors about hazards and actively preventing impaired guests from driving home. 22–27: High risk. Beyond irritating your neighbours, your parties may be running the risk of someone getting hurt. Read the next section and take it to heart, to protect yourself and the people you invite into your home. Top tips for all host types When you have guests in your home, there are always risks, and it's your responsibility to minimize them. So before you host that wine- and-cheese soirée or backyard grill-up, take a close look at your home for anything that could threaten guests' safety, says Andrew Quick, BCAA Director of Insurance Claims. "The way to look at it is to ask yourself: what would a prudent person expect me to do?" he says. A few examples: Alcohol and cannabis (once legal): As a host, you can ultimately be held responsible for your guests getting home safely. This means you need to keep an eye on what people are consuming, and insist they find a safe way home – whether you have to take away their keys, call a cab or offer up your couch for the night. Maintenance: As a host, it's your job to report any issues, and warn visitors of hazards. For instance, if you knew about a slippery carpet or loose handrail and didn't inform the landlord, or mention it to your guests, you could be on the hook legally. Serving food: Hosts are responsible for food served in their homes. If somebody gets seriously ill on your watch, and it turns out to be a result of how you stored, handled or prepared your party favours, you could be held responsible. Other risks to guest safety: Does your home have a pool, hot tub, firepit or trampoline? These are generally considered high-risk features, so you should take extra precautions to keep guests safe. That might

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