Ways to avoid common Fourth of July holiday hazards
Looking to celebrate Independence Day this weekend with backyard barbecues and fireworks displays? AAA reminds homeowners to be mindful of potential risks that could lead to property damage or injury.
“While this holiday is a time of celebration, it also brings a spike in home insurance claims related to fires, water accidents and other hazards,” Adrienne Woodland, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group, said in a news release. “With so many festivities happening at home, it’s essential that people take proactive steps to protect their property and loved ones.”
Grilling safety: Keeping the flames on the food
July is the peak month for grill-related fires, according to AAA, which offers these fire-free grilling tips —
— Supervise your grill at all times – never leave it unattended;
— Keep children and pets at a safe distance to prevent accidents;
— Place the grill away from homes, decks and trees to avoid fire hazards;
— Never grill indoors or in enclosed spaces;
— Keep a fire extinguisher and water source handy for emergencies;
— Use long-handled tools to prevent burns and flare-ups.
Fireworks safety: Leave it to the pros
Fireworks are responsible for thousands of fires each year. In 2022 alone, fireworks ignited 31,302 fires, including 3,504 structure fires and nearly $109 million in property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Some fireworks safety tips —
— Keep a safe distance – fireworks should stay far away from homes, vehicles and trees;
— Choose public fireworks displays for a safer and professional experience;
— Never allow children to handle fireworks – sparklers burn hotter than blowtorches;
— Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby for quick fire suppression;
— Wear eye protection when lighting fireworks;
— Skip alcohol and impairing substances while handling fireworks.
“Fireworks are a beautiful part of the holiday, but safety should always come first,” Woodland said. “A few precautions can keep the night dazzling without unwanted explosions.”
Other safety tips —
— Pool safety: Adult supervision, safety barriers and flotation devices can prevent accidents.
— Food safety: Cook food thoroughly, cover it properly and store leftovers safely.
— Pet safety: Fireworks can stress pets. Keep them indoors and secure during celebrations.
AAA also encourages homeowners to check their insurance policies before the holiday for coverage of fire-related incidents and other risks. For more safety tips, go to AAA.com/Insurance.