Firework Safety in Florida

7/3/2023 (Permalink)

Firework safety advice to prevent house fires with the professionals at SERVPRO in Jacksonville Beach, Ponte Vedra, Atlantic Beach, and Neptune Beach,

Preventative Firework Safety

Fireworks can be a fun and exciting way to celebrate special occasions, but it’s important to remember that they can also be dangerous if they are not used properly. Here are a few practical safety tips from SERVPRO to help ensure the safety of you and your loved ones when using fireworks to celebrate your favorite holidays.

Choose a Designated Fire Handler

Deciding upon one person to handle the fireworks is an important step in ensuring optimal firework safety. The designated fire handler should be someone responsible and mature who is not under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as these substances can impair judgment and increase the risk of accidents.

The designated fire handler should be physically able to handle the fireworks safely, including bending, kneeling, and standing for long periods of time if necessary. Safety glasses are also recommended to reduce the risk of injury to the eyes or face.

Follow Laws and Regulations

It’s important to understand the fireworks you are using and double-check to make sure they are legal to use in your area. There are local laws and regulations in place regarding the use of fireworks, and they must be respected, as these laws are implemented for the safety of you and your community.

Use Fireworks as Intended

Always purchase your fireworks from a licensed dealer, and carefully read over the warning labels to understand how to use the product properly. Home firework shows are not the time to get creative. Do not combine fireworks in an attempt to create a more visually appealing spectacle, as it can result in disaster.

Keep Water Nearby

It’s important to be proactive, not reactive. If you plan on setting off fireworks, make sure you are prepared with a hose and bucket of water nearby. By doing this, you are ready to eliminate stray flames if they occur during your festivities.

It is also vital to remember to wet the ground surrounding the area you set off your fireworks, to prevent any grass fires from igniting.

Carefully Plan Your Firework Launch Area

The area you choose for your firework launch should be a safe distance from your home or any other building. The labels on the fireworks you have chosen will have designated usage requirements to ensure adequate distance.

Keep Your Distance

If you are not the appointed firework handler, you should keep a safe distance at all times. During this time, it’s important to pay close attention to small children and pets that may be in the area to ensure they do not get too close to the lit fireworks.

Properly Dispose of Fireworks

After using fireworks, dispose of them safely. This includes soaking them in water to eliminate the possibility of reignition and placing them in a metal trash can away from any combustible materials.

Firework Fire Restoration Services

By following these simple safety measures, you can help ensure that your festive firework display is enjoyable and safe for everyone. However, accidents do happen, and when they do, SERVPRO is here to help with expert fire restoration services. Contact our team of fire safety professionals to learn more.