Fireworks and grill safety tips for Fourth of July
Stay safe this Fourth of July! Essential tips to prevent dangerous fireworks and grilling accidents that could ruin your Independence Day celebration.
As Americans prepare for Fourth of July celebrations, disturbing statistics reveal that fireworks and grilling accidents lead to thousands of injuries and millions of dollars in property damage annually. The combination of festive enthusiasm and potentially dangerous activities has prompted safety officials to raise awareness about proper precautions during Independence Day festivities.
Safety official on holiday hazards
The North Carolina Department of Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey has launched a public safety campaign highlighting the importance of careful handling of fireworks and grills during Fourth of July celebrations. “A few minor precautions can mean the difference between life and death,” Causey emphasized in a recently released safety video.
The warning comes as data from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that fireworks resulted in 9,700 injuries in 2023, with teenagers and young children being particularly vulnerable. The most affected groups were teens aged 15-19, followed by children between 5-9 years old.
Grilling dangers pose significant risks
Beyond fireworks concerns, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) data indicates that residential grill fires cause approximately 10 deaths, 100 injuries, and $37 million in property damage yearly. The peak season for these incidents occurs between May and August.
“Sadly, many people are injured or killed around Independence Day every year because of misusing fireworks or practicing unsafe grilling techniques,” Causey noted. “Many of these incidents could have been avoided with careful handling and adherence to safety guidelines.”
Essential safety guidelines
For safe fireworks handling:
- Verify local fireworks regulations before use
- Keep water sources readily available
- Prevent children from handling fireworks or sparklers
- Light fireworks individually and maintain a safe distance
- Never relight malfunctioning fireworks
- Avoid fireworks when consuming alcohol or drugs
For safe grilling practices:
- Maintain three-foot clearance from buildings
- Use grills exclusively outdoors
- Open gas grill lids before lighting
- Maintain constant supervision
- Clean after each use
- Dispose of cooled coals in metal containers with lids
Following these simple precautions can help ensure your Fourth of July celebration remains memorable for all the right reasons. For additional resources and guidelines on ways to keep your community safe this summer, visit the North Carolina Department of Insurance website.
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