Firework Safety
9/1/2022 (Permalink)
Every year, there are countless reports of firework-related fires and injuries. In fact, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that firework fires cause millions in property damage each year.
The professionals at SERVPRO of Greenville/Cleveland are here to help you celebrate safely this year. However, in the event that fire does occur, we are fire and water damage restoration experts who can help you recover.
If you're planning on setting off fireworks, make sure to follow the five safety tips mentioned in this blog post to avoid firework fire damage.
The five safety tips to avoid firework fire damage
The professionals at SERVPRO know that the leading cause of firework fire damage is when they are poorly handled. Therefore, always handle fireworks with care, and follow these five safety tips:
1) Purchase fireworks from a reputable source.
Make sure you buy your fireworks from a reputable source. Quality fireworks will ensure they will not explode or start a fire. Homemade fireworks are more likely to cause damage than store-bought fireworks.
2) Follow the instructions
When setting off fireworks, follow the instructions on the back of the packaging. Following instructions will help to ensure that the firework is used correctly and will not start a fire.
3) Have a fire extinguisher or bucket of water on hand
If a fire starts, it is essential to have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water on hand. After the fireworks show, you want to put water on the fireworks to prevent fire damage.
4) Do not use fireworks near buildings or flammable objects.
When igniting fireworks, you want to ensure that they are lit off in an open area, away from buildings and flammable objects. We suggest only setting off fireworks at a distance of at least 30 yards from any building to avoid fire damage.
5) Dispose of fireworks properly.
After the fireworks show, it is essential to dispose of them properly. Once the firework has been used, douse it with water and place it in a metal trash can. Proper disposal will help to prevent a fire from starting.
What should you do if a fire does occur?
If fire damage occurs, you will want first to prioritize the safety of yourself and your family. Then, once everyone is safe and away from the fire, you will want to contact the local fire department to come and extinguish the fire.
After the fire department leaves, you will want to:
- Contact your homeowner's insurance
- Contact a reliable fire restoration company
- Document the damages with photos and videos