AAA warns homeowners of common July 4th holiday hazards

ATLANTA – AAA warns homeowners of common July 4th holiday hazards that could lead to property damage or injury.

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As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day with backyard barbecues, fireworks displays, and poolside gatherings, AAA reminds homeowners to be mindful of potential risks that could lead to property damage or injury.

“While this holiday is a time for joy and celebration, it also sees an increase in home insurance claims due to fires, water-related incidents, and other risks,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “With so many activities happening at home, it’s crucial for individuals to take preventive measures to safeguard their property and loved ones.”

Grilling Safety: Keep the Flames on the Food

Nothing says Independence Day like a backyard barbeque, unless your grill burns more than the burgers. July is the peak month for grill-related fires, and AAA urges homeowners to follow these fire-free grilling tips:

• Supervise your grill at all times – never leave it unattended.
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance to prevent accidents.
• Place the grill at least 10 feet away from homes, decks, and trees to avoid fire hazards.
• Never grill indoors or in enclosed spaces.
• Keep a fire extinguisher and water source handy for emergencies.
• Use long-handled tools to prevent burns and flare-ups.

Fireworks Safety: Leave it to the Pros

Fireworks are the grand finale of July 4^th celebrations, yet they’re responsible for thousands of fires each year. In 2022 alone, fireworks ignited 31,302 fires, including 3,504 structure fires and nearly $109 million in property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

AAA Firework Safety Tips

• Keep a safe distance – fireworks should stay far away from homes, vehicles, and trees.
• Choose public fireworks displays for a safer professional experience.
• Never allow children to handle fireworks; sparklers burn hotter than blowtorches.
• Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby for quick fire suppression.
• Wear eye protection when lighting fireworks.
• Skip alcohol and impairing substances while handling fireworks.

“Fireworks are a beautiful part of the holiday, but safety should always come first,” said Waiters. “A few precautions can keep the night dazzling without unwanted explosions.”

Other Safety Tips:

• Pool Safety: Adult supervision, safety barriers, and flotation devices can prevent accidents.
• Food Safety: Cook food thoroughly, cover it adequately, and store leftovers safely.  
• Pet safety: Fireworks can stress pets. Keep them indoors and secure during celebrations.

AAA encourages homeowners to review their insurance policies before the holiday to ensure they have coverage for fire-related incidents and other risks. For more safety tips, visit AAA.com/Insurance.

The Auto Club Group (ACG) is the second largest AAA club in North America with more than 13 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, banking and financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG belongs to the national AAA federation with more than 65 million members in the United States and Canada. AAA’s mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. For more information, get the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.