Fourth of July Fire Safety Tips

11/25/2020 (Permalink)

With life going back to normal this Summer, this years Fourth of July celebrations are looking to be more robust than usual. In 2018, fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires including 1,900 structure fires, causing 5 deaths and $105 million in property damage. Here we want to provide you with some information and preventive measures you can take to stay safe while blowing up some fireworks! 

The danger for some fire works, such as mortars, are much more apparent than others. For example, a sparkler burns at 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit which is 300 degrees hotter than what glass melts at! Due to the highly combustible fuel and oxidizer used in sparklers they can be a fire and burn hazard. Sparklers should be held at arms length away from your body to prevent burns or clothing fires. In case of a clothing fire use fire blankets or the stop, drop, and roll technique. 

Fireworks are a lot of fun and can be a great way to mark an occasion. Here is a list of general firework safety tips to keep in mind this Fourth of July:

• Older children (never young children) should use fireworks only under the close supervision of an adult
• Only ignite fireworks outside
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to use in case of fire or on any malfunctioning fireworks
• Soak all fireworks in water, preferably overnight before discarding
• Light fireworks 1 at a time on a stable and flat platform and keep a safe distance from any lit fireworks
• Wear protective eye wear while setting off fireworks
• Do not hold lit fireworks in your hand or point them at other people
• Do not ignite fireworks in a container
• Store any remaining fireworks in a cool dry place
• Follow the instructions on the fireworks packaging. Fireworks produced outside of the US must adhere to US Safety standards to sell their products here and the testing is rigorous.
• Punks or long BBQ lighters are the safest way to light fireworks
• Properly dispose of used fireworks and leftover garbage after festivities

From everyone here at SERVPRO of Tacoma, we hope you have a fun and safe Fourth of July. Feel free to call our office with any questions or concerns about fire or smoke damage (253) 896-3000