Firework Safety for Businesses: Protecting Property and Operations
With Independence Day right around the corner, businesses across the United States are gearing up for company celebrations, many of which may include fireworks. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fireworks are responsible for over 31,000 fires annually, causing life-threatening injuries, preventable fatalities, and millions of dollars in property damage. In addition to risk of injury for employees and their families, businesses face additional risks that can disrupt operations, damage assets, and lead to significant liability. Implementing NFPA-recommended safety measures is essential to protect commercial properties and ensure a secure environment during this festive season.
The Business Impact of Firework Risks
Fireworks pose unique challenges for businesses, particularly those with outdoor spaces, warehouses, or retail fronts. The NFPA reports that 44% of these fires occur on July 4th, with an additional 1,400 incidents on the surrounding days, peaking during summer heat when dry conditions amplify fire hazards. Commercial properties, with their often larger footprints and flammable materials like packaging or equipment, are especially vulnerable. A single stray spark from a firework can ignite roofing materials, stored goods, or landscaping, leading to costly damage and potential business interruption.
Employee safety is another concern. In 2023, nearly half of the firework-related injuries from June 16 through July 16 involved burns, eye damage, or amputations, with children and bystanders at high risk. Businesses hosting events or allowing employee celebrations must consider the liability of injuries, which could result in workers’ compensation claims or lawsuits. Moreover, illegal fireworks or those acquired from unverified sources increase the unpredictability, as mishandling by staff or customers can escalate risks.
NFPA Safety Guidelines for Business Settings
The NFPA provides tailored guidance to help businesses mitigate firework-related hazards:
Opt for Professional Displays: Businesses should hire licensed professionals for fireworks displays rather than permitting consumer use on-site. This reduces the risk of amateur errors and ensures compliance with local ordinances, many of which restrict fireworks in commercial zones.
Verify Local Regulations: Check municipal codes to understand permitted times, locations, and types of fireworks. Violations can lead to fines or legal action, impacting business reputation and finances.
Designate Safety Oversight: Appoint a trained staff member to supervise any permitted activities, equipped with fire extinguishers, water hoses, or buckets to douse embers. Ensure a wide safety perimeter around ignition sites.
Secure Property: Clear debris, trim vegetation, and store flammable materials away from potential firework zones. Fires can often start outside structures, spreading to buildings.
Protect Employees and Visitors: Prohibit employee or customer use of fireworks on premises. Provide alternatives like LED lights or supervised glow stick activities to maintain a festive atmosphere safely.
Safe Disposal: Soak used fireworks in water before disposal to prevent smoldering embers from reigniting, a step critical for businesses with waste management responsibilities.
Enhancing Business Preparedness
Beyond immediate precautions, businesses can bolster safety through infrastructure and planning. Installing and maintaining fire sprinklers can contain blazes before they spread. The NFPA advises testing smoke alarms monthly and ensuring interconnected systems for comprehensive coverage, a practice businesses should extend to warehouses and offices.
Training staff on fire safety protocols is vital. Conducting a quick briefing on evacuation routes, fire extinguisher use, and emergency contacts can prepare employees for potential incidents. Businesses should also coordinate with local fire departments, sharing event plans to ensure rapid response if needed.
Insurance considerations are key. Reviewing policies to cover firework-related damages or liabilities can safeguard against unexpected costs. Documenting safety measures—such as signage prohibiting fireworks or records of professional display contracts—can also support claims if incidents occur.
The Role of Community and Industry Collaboration
Businesses can amplify safety by engaging with their communities. Partnering with local authorities or industry groups to promote NFPA resources, such as free safety materials, educates customers and reduces overall risk. For instance, hosting a safety awareness day before July 4th can highlight the dangers of sparklers (burning at over 1,000°F) and illegal fireworks.
The NFPA’s data and guidelines highlight the substantial risks of fires, injuries, and financial loss, particularly in commercial settings. By opting for professional displays, adhering to local laws, securing properties, and educating staff and customers, businesses can celebrate safely.
For more information on firework safety and additional resources, download the NFPA Firework Safety resources or contact a member of dedicated Fire Safety team today to learn more.