{"id":121503,"date":"2025-03-09T05:42:06","date_gmt":"2025-03-09T05:42:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/peraltafinancing.com\/business\/insurance\/coverage-rxb2-certification-exclusions\/"},"modified":"2025-03-09T05:42:06","modified_gmt":"2025-03-09T05:42:06","slug":"coverage-rxb2-certification-exclusions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=121503","title":{"rendered":"Coverage, RXB2 Certification & Exclusions"},"content":{"rendered":"


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Understanding Insurance Requirements for Wildland Fire Contractors<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Wildland fire contractors play a crucial role in managing and mitigating fire risks, from suppression efforts to prescribed burns. However, securing the right insurance coverage can be a challenge, especially when misinformation circulates in the industry.<\/p>\n

Recently, concerns have been raised about insurance exclusions related to prescribed burns, particularly around the concept of a \u201cHostile Fire Exclusion.\u201d In this post, we\u2019ll clarify what this means and discuss the importance of certifications like the\u00a0RXB2 Burn Boss<\/strong>\u00a0credential in obtaining coverage.<\/p>\n

What is the RXB2 Certification, and Why Does It Matter?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

For wildland fire contractors engaged in prescribed burns, holding the\u00a0RXB2 Burn Boss certification<\/strong>\u00a0is a key requirement for obtaining comprehensive coverage. This certification ensures that the individual leading the prescribed fire operation has undergone proper training and meets national standards for conducting controlled burns safely.<\/p>\n

One of the leading underwriters in the industry, McNeil & Company, has confirmed that they require this certification for anyone actively participating in a prescribed fire operation. Without the RXB2 credential, contractors may face exclusions in their coverage related to prescribed burns.<\/p>\n

Does the Entire Crew Need RXB2 Certification?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A common question that arises is whether every crew member working on a prescribed burn operation needs to hold the\u00a0RXB2 certification<\/strong>\u00a0or just the individual responsible for leading the burn.<\/p>\n

While the burn boss (the person overseeing and conducting the fire) must be RXB2 certified, support crew members who are not actively lighting the fire may not need this certification. However, insurance requirements can vary by provider, so it\u2019s essential to confirm coverage specifics with your agent.<\/p>\n

Addressing Concerns About the \u201cHostile Fire Exclusion\u201d<\/strong><\/h2>\n

There has been some confusion about whether certain policies exclude coverage for prescribed burns due to a \u201chostile fire exclusion.\u201d Let\u2019s set the record straight:<\/p>\n

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  • The\u00a0hostile fire exclusion<\/strong>\u00a0referenced in some policies applies only to specific situations outlined in the\u00a0Commercial General Liability (CGL) Coverage Form (CG0001)<\/strong>.<\/li>\n
  • It does\u00a0not<\/strong>\u00a0mean that all prescribed burns are automatically excluded from coverage.<\/li>\n
  • A hostile fire is defined as a fire that becomes uncontrollable or breaks out from where it was intended to be.<\/strong><\/li>\n
  • Insurance providers, such as McNeil & Company, clarify that they\u00a0fully intend to cover losses from escaped prescribed fires<\/strong>\u2014provided that the contractor meets their underwriting requirements (such as holding an RXB2 certification).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    If a policyholder does\u00a0not<\/strong>\u00a0have the RXB2 certification, some insurers may exclude prescribed burn operations altogether, requiring proof of alternative coverage for those activities.<\/p>\n

    Why Proper Insurance Matters for Wildland Fire Contractors<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Wildland fire work is high-risk, and having the right insurance coverage ensures that contractors are protected in case of unintended fire escapes, property damage, or liability claims. Some key coverage options available for fire contractors include:<\/p>\n

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    • Suppression Insurance<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Covers organizations involved in wildfire suppression.<\/li>\n
    • Rx Fire Insurance<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Provides protection for controlled burn operations, ensuring there are no broad fire exclusions.<\/li>\n
    • Workers\u2019 Compensation<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Covers injuries for fire suppression workers.<\/li>\n
    • Auto Insurance<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Protects vehicles and attached equipment used in fire operations.<\/li>\n
    • Inland Marine<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 Covers tools and equipment essential for the job.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      Providers like\u00a0Conservation United<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0McNeil & Company<\/strong>\u00a0offer various options for wildfire suppression and prescribed burn contractors, but it\u2019s important to understand the fine print and confirm whether exclusions apply to your operations.<\/p>\n

      The Bottom Line<\/strong><\/h2>\n

      Misinformation in the insurance industry can create unnecessary panic, but by working with knowledgeable agents and confirming policy details, contractors can ensure they have the protection they need.<\/p>\n

      If you\u2019re a wildland fire contractor, don\u2019t leave your coverage to chance\u2014make sure you meet the RXB2 certification requirements, review your policy for any exclusions, and work with an experienced insurance provider to secure the right protection.<\/strong><\/p>\n

      Need help navigating your insurance options?\u00a0Contact us today to review your coverage and ensure you\u2019re protected.<\/strong><\/p>\n

      Bancorp\u2019s insurance agents are available to provide you with a free review and consultation.\u00a0\u00a0Contact Us \u2013 Bancorp Insurance Call 800-452-6826<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n