Reduce Your Risk: Firework Safety

July 4th marks America’s Independence Day, which involves festivities like barbecues, family gatherings and, most notably, fireworks. Even though these have become an integral part of July 4th celebrations, fireworks pose undeniable risks to you and your business. When your business or organization hosts a special event with fireworks, take precautions to reduce the risks and keep your employees and spectators injury-free.

The dangers of fireworks and sparklers, which cause frequent injuries and accidents, are often underestimated. In 2022, 10,200 people were treated in emergency rooms for firework-related injuries, 73% of which occurred during an Independence Day celebration.ⁱ All fireworks carry the potential risk of property fire, burns or other bodily injuries, but you can reduce your risk with proper planning and safety precautions:

• Arrange for the proper delivery, storage and use of your fireworks.
• Make sure the site is suitable for your display and check that there is enough distance between the fireworks display and any buildings, structures or people.
• Obey local ordinances regarding private fireworks usage and keep your local authorities informed of your plans.
• Read and follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions and warnings.
• If a firework does not go off, do not try to relight it. Instead, wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water to ensure it is completely extinguished.
• Never light a firework in a glass or metal container.
• Ensure you have enough fire extinguishers and buckets of water ready in the event that something lights on fire.

Whether you hire a professional fireworks display operator or do it yourself, you should first verify that your general liability policy will provide coverage for injuries or property damage caused by fireworks. Other coverages to consider are:

• Event cancellation insurance
• Weather insurance
• Special event insurance

Be sure that your organization complies with all applicable state and local laws. The laws regulate who can purchase and use fireworks, when they can be purchased, when they may be used and what the maximum noise levels may be. Under these regulations, the industry focus is not only on product safety, but also on the reduction of accidents and injuries. Following all applicable laws and the best practices noted above will ensure your assets are protected this Independence Day.