There’s no holiday quite like The Fourth of July. The day is long, the evening is warm, and everybody’s in a great mood as they gather around the grill. Then the evening is topped off by thrilling displays of fireworks to celebrate our nation’s independence. Followed by burning trees, brush, cars, and homes.
Far more fires occur on July 4 than any other day, according to the National Fire Protection Association, and 40% of them are due to fireworks mishaps. You can’t prevent them all, but there are some sensible steps you can take to make sure you don’t contribute to the problem.
Firework Precautions to Prevent Fires
First and foremost, if you’re going to be using fireworks, do so safely, legally and responsibly. The Fourth is also one of the busiest days at emergency rooms.
Always use fireworks in places where they won’t cause damage—to either property or people. If they’re airborne, know where they’re likely to burst and land. Avoid structures and dry areas where they can start fires. If they’re ground-huggers, be sure they won’t throw sparks into combustible material or under vehicles.
Fireworks Safety Tips for Your Outdoor Space
You may not be the one using the fireworks, so be sure that if a stray one finds its way onto your property it won’t find fuel for a fire. Here are some things you can do:
- Clear away dried-out grass and shrubbery
- Trim away dead spots on trees and shrubs
- Remove any dead or dying trees or shrubs
- Trim or prune any overgrown or overhanging branches that may help a fire jump from place to place, including your or a neighbor’s roof.
- Have a garden hose or extinguisher handy to put out small fires, but call 9-1-1 immediately if the fire isn’t fully extinguished in a matter of seconds or is in an inaccessible spot
Professionally Remove Dead and Diseased Vegetation
The folks at Donovan Arborists wish you and yours a happy and safe Fourth of July and remind you that removing dead or diseased trees and shrubs is not only good for safety, it’s also important for proper disease and pest control in your landscape. Contact us for a free quote to prepare your property for a Fourth to remember.
