Fireworks are Fire Hazards | SERVPRO® of Downtown Charleston

6/28/2021 (Permalink)

More fires are reported on July 4th than any other day of the year. Let’s break that tradition!

Okay, quick facts: Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires a year. This includes 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and nearly 17,000 other fires.  Yikes! 

It’s the season of summer vacations, camping, family reunions, picnics, bonfires, and the 4th of July and that means FIREWORKS. Even sparklers – as small as they are – can burn at 2,000 degrees. That’s as hot as a blow torch and can melt some metals! Crowds and barbeque grills and the heat and the explosive nature of fireworks don’t mix. This combination makes for a higher chance of fireworks accidents. In fact, more fires are reported on July 4th than any other day of the year. 

If not used properly, fireworks can cause destruction ranging from wildfires to injuries. Children between the ages of 10 and 14 are most likely to go the emergency room for firework injuries. The second most likely group is adults between the ages of 20 and 24. 

Fireworks can also lead to fires that burn down homes, damage entertainment venues, and cause bushfires on property. This accounts for up to $105 million in direct property damage annually. Who’s responsible for covering this damage? That depends. Homeowners insurance typically covers house fires, but damage caused by fireworks is sometimes a gray area. Usually, if the fireworks were legal the damage might be covered, whereas if they were illegal the damage likely will not be covered by your insurance. Reach out to your insurance agent to make sure you’re covered. 

To make sure our property and everyone around us is safe, follow these guidelines when using fireworks: 

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them 
• Only light one firework at a time 
• Point fireworks away from homes, trees, and shrubbery 
• After fireworks finish burning, douse them with plenty of water from a bucket or garden hose before discarding them 
• Do not carry fireworks in your pocket 

• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire or other mishap 
• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities 
• Do not allow children to play with or light fireworks 

If your property suffers fire damage, you can depend on us. You can contact us at any hour of the day to learn more about our services.