In 2025, many Chicagoland organizations are learning that traditional property and liability insurance policies may not fully protect them if an active assailant event occurs. That’s where Active Assailant insurance comes in — a specialized coverage designed to address the financial and human costs of violent incidents.

Why This Matters Now

National headlines in recent months have heightened awareness of workplace and public safety. Even when incidents happen outside Illinois, they spark concern for local schools, nonprofits, and businesses that serve the public.

Organizations face not only the physical and emotional toll of these events, but also significant financial exposures:

• Medical bills for injured employees, students, or visitors.

• Counseling and trauma support.

• Crisis management and security response costs.

• Business interruption and lost income.

• Potential lawsuits from victims or their families.

What Active Assailant Coverage Provides

While policies differ by insurer, Active Assailant coverage often includes:

• Medical Expenses & Victim Support
  Covers immediate medical costs, funeral expenses, and counseling services.

• Crisis Response Services
  Provides access to security experts, public relations support, and legal guidance.

• Property Damage
  Pays for repairs or rebuilding if damage occurs during an incident.

• Business Interruption
  Compensates for lost revenue if operations are shut down.

• Liability Protection
  Helps defend against lawsuits alleging negligence in security or preparedness.

Who Needs It Most?

Active Assailant coverage is most critical for organizations with high public interaction or vulnerable populations:

• Schools and Universities

• Nonprofits and Religious Institutions

• Healthcare Facilities

• Retailers, Restaurants, and Event Venues

• Large Employers with Open Workspaces

Even organizations with security protocols in place may find themselves exposed if their traditional liability policies exclude or limit violent event coverage.

What It Doesn’t Cover

It’s important to note that Active Assailant policies usually:

• Exclude war, terrorism, or gang-related crime.

• Require security procedures and training to be in place.

• Have limits that may not cover all long-term expenses.

Working with a knowledgeable advisor is key to understanding what’s included and what’s not.

Risk Management Beyond Insurance

Coverage alone isn’t enough. Illinois organizations should also:

• Develop and regularly rehearse emergency action plans.

• Train staff in recognizing warning signs and de-escalation.

• Maintain strong relationships with local law enforcement.

• Offer ongoing mental health resources to employees and volunteers.

The Bottom Line

Active assailant events are rare, but their consequences are devastating. Traditional insurance may leave Illinois organizations exposed to significant financial and reputational risk. By adding Active Assailant coverage and strengthening crisis preparedness, schools, nonprofits, and businesses can provide peace of mind to employees, customers, and the communities they serve.

Is your organization protected against today’s most unpredictable risks? Contact us for a review of Active Assailant coverage options tailored to your needs.

📚 Sources

• Insurance Journal – Active Assailant market trends (2024–2025)

• Illinois Department of Insurance – Coverage filings and exclusions

• U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Active shooter preparedness guidance

• Nonprofit Risk Management Center – Crisis planning resources

Active Assailant Coverage: A Growing Need in Chicagoland

No organization ever wants to imagine facing an act of violence on its premises. Yet for schools, nonprofits, places of worship, and businesses across Illinois, preparing for the unthinkable has become part of responsible risk management.