What is special risks insurance for firefighters, and how does it protect them on and off duty? In today’s fire service landscape, evolving hazards demand more comprehensive protection. Traditional insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, often fall short of covering the unique and high-risk activities firefighters face — especially for volunteers or off-duty responders. That’s why it’s essential for insurance agents to understand how special risks insurance can fill these gaps and offer real value to emergency service clients.
What Makes Firefighting a Special Risk?
Firefighters face an extraordinary range of threats, from structural fires and chemical exposures to musculoskeletal injuries during rescue operations. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), over 60,000 firefighter injuries occur annually, with thousands related to non-fireground activities. Cancer and cardiac-related fatalities, stress-related mental health conditions, and risks during training or travel all elevate the profession into a category that standard insurance simply isn’t designed to handle.
Many of these incidents occur off duty during training exercises, mutual aid responses, or volunteer service. With volunteers comprising approximately 65% of the U.S. fire service, it’s clear that coverage must extend beyond traditional career-based policies. As an agent, it’s critical to assess how your clients’ exposures — particularly off-duty and volunteer-related — create protection gaps that need to be addressed with the right coverage solutions.
How Does A&H Insurance Fill Critical Gaps?
Accident and health (A&H) insurance addresses the limitations of conventional policies. Provident’s A&H solutions offer protection that extends beyond the station, including:
- 24-hour accidental death and dismemberment insurance
- Weekly income replacement benefits for those temporarily unable to work
- Medical expense benefits tied to both duty-related and off-duty incidents
For example, if a firefighter is injured while driving to a mutual aid call, workers’ compensation might not apply. Provident’s A&H insurance helps ensure they are covered, supporting recovery and financial stability.
For agents, recommending A&H insurance can mean the difference between a department with comprehensive financial protection and one struggling to support a sidelined member. This type of policy reinforces operational resilience for departments and peace of mind for their members.
What Coverage Features Matter Most for Fire Departments?
Departments should look for features that prioritize:
- 24/7 portability for both career and volunteer firefighters
- Mental health support, including coverage for counseling and stress-related claims
- Simplified claims processes to reduce administrative burden
When selecting a policy, it is also essential to evaluate how it supports long-term objectives, such as recruitment and retention. Offering substantial volunteer firefighter benefits and first responder health insurance helps demonstrate a department’s commitment to its people, which can directly impact morale and staffing. Agents who lead with these value-add features are well-positioned to support client retention and new business growth.
Supporting Those Who Serve With Specialized Protection
Special risks insurance is no longer optional for departments seeking comprehensive protection. It is a vital investment in the safety, stability, and well-being of your team. Whether paid or volunteer, today’s fire service professionals need solutions that align with the modern risks they face.
For insurance agents, this is a chance to be more than just a policy provider — it’s an opportunity to be a trusted advisor. Contact Provident today to explore how specialized risk insurance can enhance your department’s protection and performance.
FAQ About Special Risks Insurance
Do volunteer firefighters get benefits?
Yes, but the benefits vary widely. Provident offers volunteer-specific insurance solutions, including coverage for injuries sustained during training, travel, or community response.
What benefits do firefighters get with special risks insurance?
Firefighters may receive 24/7 accident protection, medical expense coverage, income replacement, and death and dismemberment benefits tailored to their service roles.
Is A&H insurance better than workers’ comp?
It’s not a replacement, but a supplement. A&H insurance fills in the gaps that workers’ compensation may not cover, especially in scenarios involving volunteers or off-duty situations.
About Provident
Founded in 1902, our rich history includes the creation of custom firefighter insurance benefits in 1928. Today, Provident continues to be a pioneer in developing insurance programs for firefighters, EMS providers, municipal entities, and law enforcement. In addition, we provide Special Risks insurance for various volunteer and nonprofit groups. Give us a call today at (412) 963-1200 to speak with one of our representatives.