When it comes to holiday fires, most of us focus on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. These two holidays account for most holiday fires during the year. It’s easy to ignore the dangers of New Year’s, though. The fact of the matter is 10% of fireworks-related fires peak on New Years’ Day.
Fireworks start over 18,000 fires each year. In 2017, eight people died and 12,000 were injured due to fireworks-related accidents. Around 50% of these were children and young adults. As a community, we need to do more to reduce firework hazards.
Leave Holiday Fireworks to the Experts
If you insist on lighting off holiday fireworks, hire a professional. There are entertainment companies out there with trained and certified fireworks technicians. These experts know the proper safety techniques and precautions for setting off fireworks.
While certainly an additional cost, hiring a pro is cheaper than paying for reconstruction or fire damage cleanup.
Sparkler Safety Tips
It’s not common knowledge that sparklers burn at 2,000 degrees. That’s hot enough to melt many types of metal. Here’s a few tips for using fireworks safely year:
- When using sparklers, do so in a controlled environment.
- Always wear tight-fitting clothing as sparklers can quickly ignite loose clothing.
- Don’t let young children handle sparklers.
- Consider alternatives, including glow sticks or confetti poppers.
New Year’s Celebration Safety Tips
- Check the wind when setting off fireworks and account for spectators.
- Keep well back from anyone setting off a firework, as they may backfire.
- Do not attempt to create your own fireworks or alter store-bought fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time — no more.
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Consider your pets, who have sensitive ears and may stress over firework sounds.
- Be considerate of neighbors and those with PTSD.
In the event of a New Year’s fire, call your local Restoration 1. We offer 24-hour fire damage restoration services — no matter the type of severity of the fire. We’re available 24/7 — holidays included.
