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Prescribed Fire Insurance

Navigating Workers’ Compensation for Wildland Fire Suppression and Controlled Burning

By January 6, 2025No Comments

In the face of increasingly intense wildfire seasons, the role of wildland firefighters and personnel involved in controlled burning has never been more critical. These individuals not only battle blazes to protect our communities and natural landscapes but also engage in preventive measures through controlled burns. Given the inherent risks of these activities, workers compensation coverage has been difficult for organizations to find. Conservation United invites you to explore the nuances of workers’ compensation for those involved in wildland fire suppression and controlled burning activities. If you’re ready for a quote, contact us today!

Understanding the Risk

Wildland firefighting and controlled burning involve unique occupational hazards. From smoke inhalation leading to respiratory issues to the risk of burns, falls, and exposure to hazardous substances, the job is fraught with danger. Moreover, there’s a growing acknowledgment of long-term health risks like occupational cancers and cardiovascular diseases linked to firefighting, particularly in the wildland context.

  • Firefighter Health and Wellbeing: The U.S. Department of the Interior has emphasized understanding and mitigating these occupational hazards as part of the Federal Wildland Firefighter Health and Wellbeing program.

Current Workers’ Compensation Landscape

Federal Coverage: Under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act (FECA), administered by the Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP), federal wildland firefighters are covered for injuries or diseases proximately caused by their employment.

Private Coverage: For non-federal employees, coverage can vary significantly by state. Securing workers’ compensation for those involved in prescribed burns and wildfire suppression activities is fraught with challenges. The nature of these jobs, which often involve remote locations, unpredictable conditions, and a broad spectrum of hazards from smoke inhalation to physical injuries, complicates the process of claiming compensation.

Solutions

Conservation United is addressing the critical need for workers’ compensation in the field of controlled burns and wildfire suppression by offering a specialized, nationwide program. This initiative is designed for organizations involved in these high-risk activities, providing comprehensive coverage that includes $1,000,000 in Employers Liability. This level of coverage is crucial for protecting both the workers and the organizations from the financial repercussions of workplace injuries or illnesses, which are often severe and unpredictable in this line of work. By offering such a policy, Conservation United not only assists to mitigate the legal and financial risks associated with these operations but also promotes safer practices by ensuring that employees have access to necessary medical care, wage replacement, and rehabilitation services should they get injured. This forward-thinking approach helps in fostering a more resilient and responsible environmental management sector.

Cover Your Organization

To get a workers’ compensation quote tailored for prescribed fire and wildfire suppression activities, reach out to Conservation United. Our team can routinely provide a workers compensation quote in a few days. Our team is well-versed in navigating the complexities of this industry, ensuring your organization is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.