Firework Fires in Utah

As the owner of RainFire Restoration, I’ve seen firsthand the devastation that firework-related fires can cause. With the 4th of July right around the corner, it’s a time to celebrate our nation’s freedom with family, friends, and, of course, fireworks. But while fireworks are a beloved tradition, they also come with serious risks that we can’t afford to ignore.

Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires every year, leading to an estimated $43 million in direct property damage annually. In 2018 alone, the Salt Lake City area reported 45 firework-related incidents that required 85 responses from local fire crews. These numbers highlight the importance of exercising caution when handling fireworks. By taking a few simple precautions, we can significantly reduce the risk of fire and keep our celebrations safe.

Firework Safety Tips

1. Obey Local Laws

Fireworks laws exist for a reason. Certain areas are more prone to fires due to dry conditions, and restrictions are in place to protect these vulnerable regions. Before lighting fireworks, check the local regulations for your area. Utah often has designated zones where fireworks are permitted, so be sure to follow the rules to avoid fines or, worse, accidental fires.

• Know Your Boundaries: Many cities and towns publish maps showing where fireworks are allowed. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines.
• Respect Firework Bans: If fireworks are banned in your area, it’s likely due to high fire risk. Consider attending a professional firework show instead.

2. Keep Buckets of Water and Fire Extinguishers Nearby

Always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher on hand when setting off fireworks. These tools can help you quickly extinguish sparks or flames before they spread. Here’s how to use them effectively:

• Douse Used Fireworks: After a firework has gone off, immediately submerge it in water to ensure it’s completely extinguished.
• Quick Response to Sparks: Use the bucket of water or a fire extinguisher to put out any accidental fires caused by stray sparks.

3. Don’t Relight “Dud” Fireworks

It’s frustrating to light a firework only for it to fail, but trying to relight a dud is a dangerous mistake. Fireworks can be unpredictable and might explode unexpectedly. Instead:

• Wait 15-20 Minutes: Give the dud firework time to cool down.
• Soak in Water: Place it in a bucket of water to render it harmless.
• Dispose Safely: Follow local guidelines for disposing of fireworks.

4. Avoid Altering or Making Homemade Fireworks

Never attempt to modify store-bought fireworks or create homemade explosives. This is the leading cause of firework-related fires and injuries. Fireworks are carefully designed to burn in controlled ways, and tampering with them can result in dangerous, unpredictable outcomes.

• Stick to Commercial Products: Use only fireworks purchased from reputable retailers.
• Avoid Experimentation: Leave pyrotechnics to the professionals.

5. Use Common Sense

Simple precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents:

• Wear Shoes: Protect your feet from stray sparks or hot debris.
• Keep a Safe Distance: Stand back after lighting a firework and never lean over it.
• Supervise Children: Ensure children are always supervised when using sparklers or other fireworks.
• Clear the Area: Make sure the launch area is free from flammable materials like dry grass or leaves.

What to Do in Case of a Fire

Despite our best efforts, accidents can still happen. If a fire does occur:

1. Act Quickly: Small fires can spread rapidly. Use your bucket of water or fire extinguisher to douse flames immediately.
2. Call 911: If the fire is too large to control, evacuate the area and call emergency services.
3. Contact a Restoration Professional: After the fire is extinguished, call RainFire Restoration at (385) 336-7246. Our team is available 24/7 to help with fire damage cleanup and restoration.

Why Firework Safety Matters

Celebrating the 4th of July should be about joy, not disaster. By following these safety tips, you can protect your family, your property, and your community from firework-related hazards. At RainFire Restoration, we’re committed to helping Utah families recover from unexpected disasters. If you ever need assistance with fire damage, smoke remediation, or odor removal, we’re just a call away.

Let’s work together to make this 4th of July memorable for all the right reasons. Stay safe, follow the rules, and enjoy the festivities responsibly.