Hartford issues a warning to businesses to prepare for civil unrest on Election Day

As Election Day approaches, Connecticut businesses are being warned to prepare for potential “civil unrest.” Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., sent an email last week to its business policyholders warning that some political demonstrations “could result in costly losses for businesses” that are not prepared.

The message emphasized that while most gatherings and protests remain peaceful, the risk of escalation is real. For business owners, this can mean serious financial and operational consequences.

The insurance giant urged companies to be proactive in protecting their properties and outlined several step to help protect their assets and livelihoods.

“The more time to prepare, the better,” The Hartford advised, adding that “as a best practice, every business should have an emergency plan tailored to its unique needs and risks.”

The company also encouraged business owners to pay attention to local events and news; to protect objects inside buildings and reinforcing entry points, including doors, windows and roof access; and, among other precautions, to be aware of flammable materials and dangerous objects around the premises and either remove or secure these objects to minimize fire risks.

Outside the building, The Hartford urged businesses to secure and/or remove objects that could be used to cause damage to windows and vehicles, as well as ensure that all exterior lighting is operational, which can act as a deterrent at night. In addition, the company suggested that fire and burglar alarms should be checked for functionality to enhance security.

To combat potential burglary, The Hartford asked retailers to lock or move valuable items, especially those that are easy to carry and resell, which can prevent unnecessary losses if a crowd becomes unruly. Business owners are also advised to secure sensitive customer and employee information and, where possible, temporarily relocate personally identifiable information (PII) to avoid data breaches or accidental destruction.

Hartford’s checklist also includes essential preparations for equipment and backup systems. Testing generators, emergency lighting and other critical equipment now can help avoid costly outages later. For businesses that may need to evacuate, creating a detailed plan that includes safe exits, designated roles for employees, and clear post-incident instructions can help keep staff safe and clarify expectations.

In addition to these internal measures, The Hartford also suggested coordinating with suppliers, instructing them to delay deliveries if the area becomes a war zone, and establishing policies to notify employees when they can return to work.

Reflecting Hartford’s concerns Attorney General William Tong and 50 other state attorneys general issued a declaration Monday (Nov. 4) saying, “Regardless of the outcome of Tuesday’s election, we expect Americans to respond peacefully, and we condemn any acts of violence related to the results.”

The group added: “We encourage every American to vote, engage in civil discourse and above all respect the integrity of the democratic process, states the Attorney General,“ stresses that “violence has no place in the democratic process.”

According to the email, businesses with property coverage under The Hartford’s business owners policy are “generally” covered for losses related to property damage and business interruption due to civil unrest.