Firework Safety & Homeowners Insurance

Mary Thompson, Capstone Brokerage President, June 26, 2017

It is time to Celebrate America and our independence this year. Part of many Americans celebration will be lighting Fire Works. Are you prepared for the risk involved with this time less celebration of our country’s freedom? Consider the following safety checklist before you light anything this coming holiday.

1. First and foremost, follow the law, certain cities are only permitted to have certain types of fireworks. There is a reason for these laws. Typically to avoid a house fire, be smart and follow the law to avoid a hefty insurance claim and the loss of property due to fire.

Here in Nevada, From June 28 to July 4, it is legal for people in the most populous county in Nevada to buy, possess and use fireworks that fall within the “safe and sane” guidelines, meaning they keep to a small, circular area on the ground and don’t explode in the air.

2. Read the labels on your fireworks, these are there for a reason as cautionary labels and to explain the performance descriptions. VERY IMPORTANT before igniting.

3. Be sure to take your time, light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.

4. Have a bucket of water to put out any fireworks that need to be extinguished.

5. Light Fireworks in a clear area away from homes, plants and people.

6. Be sure to dispose of fireworks by wetting them before tossing into the garbage.

When it comes to celebrating the 4th of July what you may want to know about your insurance policy and the protection provided.
If you are using illegal fireworks and you or a guest in your home gets injured from that firework your homeowners insurance will cover the medical treatment but you can’t file a liability claim against your own policy so if you are personally injured it would have to be covered by your heath insurance.

If your home catches fire from the fireworks embers your insurance policy would have to be looked at to be sure that there is accidental coverage. However if you are using illegal fireworks and you set fire to your home, you most likely will not be covered. It is important to understand the laws and your insurance policy when you are enjoying the upcoming holiday. For more information about this topic be sure to speak to your insurance broker, and or company that provides you coverage. Be smart, follow the law, be safe and remember to celebrate with caution this holiday.