The 4th of July can be one of the best times of the year for barbecuing and fun with friends and family. It is also, however, one of the most dangerous times of the year for your home and loved ones. Fire is everywhere on July 4th. Whether it is fireworks, sparklers, or firecrackers, all can result in extensive property damage to the exterior of your home. Siding, roofing , wooden structures and even cars are vulnerable to damage cause by 4th of July fireworks. It is important to exercise personal safety and avoidance of fire hazards , this is always a first priority when dealing with fireworks on any occasion.
According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), each July Fourth, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks – devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death.
Here are the statistics from the NFPA — Fireworks by the numbers:
- In 2011, fireworks caused an estimated 17,800 reported fires, including 1,200 total structure fires, 400 vehicle fires, and 16,300 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported civilian deaths, 40 civilian injuries and $32 million in direct property damage.
- In 2012, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,700 people for fireworks related injuries; 55% of 2012 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 31% were to the head.
- The risk of fireworks injury was highest for young people ages 15-24, followed by children under 10.
- On Independence Day in a typical year, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires.
There’s a common misconception that all fireworks are legal on holidays like July 4th, which is inaccurate. Keep in mind, North Carolina does have restrictive laws governing fireworks. There are certain fireworks that are illegal to possess in this state. At Belk Builders, we are concerned about the safety and well-being of our friends and neighbors here in Charlotte and the surrounding area and urge you and your family to exercise “safety first” when it comes to firework use. Our Queen City and surrounding areas offer many venues from which to sit back and safely enjoy a professional Fourth of July fireworks show. This is not only fun for the whole family, and a tradition worth sharing, but it also greatly decreases the chances of personal injury and damage to your home as well.
Several communities around the Charlotte area will have festivals, parades and fireworks beginning Thursday, July 3rd and extending through until Sunday, July 6th. Please visit http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2014/06/27/5010252/charlotte-area-independence-day.html#.U7WOo7_ELgU for a complete listing of events in honor of the holiday, courtesy of The Charlotte Observer.
Belk Builders wants to wish you and yours a safe and happy 4th of July!
Kent Frerichs, Owner Belk Builders.
Belk Builders is the Charlotte and surrounding area’s place for upscale vinyl siding replacement, window replacement and roofing. We are also your one-stop-shop for all your Hardie® replacement siding needs in and around the Charlotte area. Contact Belk Builders at (704) 400-4710 or info@belkcustombuilders.com to schedule a free roof inspection or exterior home evaluation today! Financing is also available through GE Capital Finance.
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