Fourth of July and Fire Damages

6/16/2023 (Permalink)

With summer upon us, comes holidays such as the 4th of July, usually celebrated with the bright balls of light we call fireworks. While this holiday can be a lot of fun, we need to make sure that we are creating a safe environment, especially when it comes to using fireworks.

The National Safety Council advises everyone to enjoy fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals, and not to use any fireworks at home. In some locations around the US, fireworks are illegal to purchase, but, if consumer fireworks are legal to buy where you live and you choose to use them, be sure to keep the following safety tips in mind:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Older children should use them only under close adult supervision. 
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol. 
• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear. 
• Never hold lit fireworks in your hands. 
• Never light fireworks indoors. Only use them away from people, houses, and flammable materials. 
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person. 
• Maintain a safe distance after lighting fireworks. Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks. 
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that do not go off or in case of fire.  

Why are fireworks dangerous?

Fireworks can be very unpredictable. FIreworks can explode unexpectedly at any time and can even go off in the wrong direction sometimes. It is also very difficult to gauge exactly how large an explosion may be, especially with illegal fireworks. 

SERVPRO of Lee & South Chatham Counties is ready to help this upcoming holiday, with trained technicians and the right equipment for your restoration.