A Guide to Fireworks and Insurance
For many Texas families, fireworks signal the end of a fun-filled summer holiday. Everyone gathers for a rare display of dazzling color and light spread across the Texas sky.
But as beloved as they are, fireworks come with specific dangers and considerations. In 2022, they were the cause of about 10,200 injuries in U.S. emergency rooms, according to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission’s “2022 Fireworks Annual Report.”
Before sparks fly, here’s what you should know about fireworks safety and a few firework-related insurance considerations to keep in mind
Are Fireworks Legal in Texas?
No matter where you live, it’s best to check local regulations before buying fireworks in bulk. Typically, it’s illegal to set off fireworks in most city limits. But you must be careful about more rural and remote settings, too. If a burn ban is in effect, you may not be able to celebrate with specific types of fireworks.
Also, just because it’s on display at the roadside fireworks stand doesn’t mean you should buy it. Making sure your fireworks are legal can eliminate some potential issues. In Texas, only 1.4G fireworks, such as sparklers, snappers, or some Roman candles, are legal for consumers, per the Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Property Insurance & Fireworks
If you’re planning to shoot off fireworks at your home this year, there are a few firework-related insurance considerations to keep in mind. Should an accident occur, it’s likely that the insurance company would conduct an investigation to determine fault and if there was any negligence.
Does Property Insurance Cover Fireworks Damage?
Typically, property insurance will cover fireworks-related damage to an insured home and detached structures such as a gazebo, shop, or barn. Fire, smoke, and explosions are covered “perils,” which are events that could damage your home or belongings.
What Happens If Someone Is Hurt on My Property?
Fireworks can be unpredictable; an errant spark can reach clothing or even unsuspecting hands. If that happens and a guest is injured while at your home, liability coverage from your property insurance will most likely cover any medical bills.
Most property insurance policies have comprehensive personal liability coverage, which helps protect your family against property damage or bodily injury lawsuits. Some Agents encourage policyholders to increase their liability coverage to the $500,000 limit, as medical bills can quickly add up. You might want to consider an umbrella insurance policy if you have a significant amount of assets, such as a healthy stock portfolio or rental property.
Talk to Your Agent
Trying to figure out what is — and isn’t — covered can get confusing. If you have questions about your property insurance, reach out to your Texas Farm Bureau Insurance Agent. They can review your property insurance policy with you and point out any areas that might need additional coverage, whether that’s additional liability coverage or insuring your new shed.
Fireworks Safety 101
While accidents happen, there are fireworks safety measures homeowners can take for a happy and safe Fourth of July.
- Be weather aware. Texas summers are notoriously hot, dry, and windy. Stay aware of any burn bans or warnings in your area, as well as any wind advisories.
- Pick your fireworks spot carefully. Look for a spot full of bare dirt, concrete, sand, and/or stone. Avoid potentially flammable spaces such as wooded areas; open, grassy fields; and structures.
- Limit the type of fireworks you allow on your property. Consider the legality of the fireworks you choose. Also, if guests are bringing over some fireworks, let them know what kinds you’re OK with.
- Keep curious kids close. Fireworks can be entrancing to little hands. Make sure any children are close to an adult and out of the way of potential harm — especially if you’re using sparklers.
- Light one at a time. Lighting more than one firework at a time may seem like a good idea, but the reality is that it could get out of control very quickly.
- Dispose carefully. Soak any spent or unused fireworks in water before throwing them away.
Hitting the open road for the Fourth? Tune up with our driving guide for a safe Fourth of July before you go.
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