Our nation’s Independence Day is fast approaching, a time of year when cookouts and fireworks are par for the course. This year is looking a little different though, with many community fireworks displays being cancelled or postponed due to social distancing guidelines still in effect. As a result, more people than usual will take matters into their own hands, so to speak, and put on their own fireworks shows in their yards, on beaches and at gatherings. 

 

Everyone lights off fireworks with the best of intentions, but situations can go from bad to worse in an instant. Fireworks can cause serious burns and eye injuries, not to mention they can blow off fingers and hands. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an average of 180 people go to the ER every day in this country suffering from fireworks-related injuries in the month around the 4th of July holiday.

Here at Bearce Insurance, we want you to have a happy and fun holiday. But we also want you to be safe. Here are some tips to protect yourself and your property on July Fourth.

Protect Yourself and Others

Refrain from using consumer fireworks, to minimize the risk of injury. If your community is still having a public fireworks display conducted by professionals, attend it from a safe distance.

If you decide to use consumer fireworks, follow all instructions. Never attempt to re-light “duds” or make your own fireworks.

 

Don’t allow children to handle or light fireworks – and this includes sparklers. These seemingly innocent products burn at more than 1,000 degrees, leading to third-degree burns. The U.S. Fire Administration says kids under the age of 15 account for 40 percent of fireworks injuries.

 

Make sure a responsible adult is present when children – even teens – are around fireworks. According to the National Safety Council, 50 percent of fireworks injuries are to children and young adults under the age of 20.

Protect Your Home

* The National Fire Protection Association says the best way to protect your home is to refrain from using fireworks at home.

 

*Fireworks can lead to grass fires and other types of blazes. Always light fireworks in a safe area, away from buildings and homes, as well as any combustible materials. Keep a fire extinguisher handy in case there’s an emergency.

 

*Be on the lookout for tree limbs or bushes that may catch fire. It’s a good idea to trim vegetation that could prevent a catastrophic fire on the Fourth of July.

 

*Clean out your gutters if they are clogged with leaves, pine needles, nests or other flammable materials.

If you will be away from home on the 4th, ask your neighbor to watch your house if you know others in the neighborhood plan to light off fireworks.

Contact Bearce Insurance for More Safety Information

For more Fourth of July safety tips or more information on our many policies, contact us locally at 508-586-3400 or toll-free at 800-498-9900, or get an online quote today!