4th of July Safety Tips from L.W. Bills Company

The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, with barbecues, fireworks, and gatherings of family and community. But it’s also one of the busiest days of the year for fire departments across the country. As a company dedicated to public safety and fire prevention, L.W. Bills is here to help keep your holiday safe.

Here are our top tips to enjoy Independence Day without experiencing a fire emergency.

Be Smart About Fireworks

• Leave it to the pros: Attend an official, licensed, public fireworks show instead of lighting them at home.

• Know the law: Consumer fireworks (like firecrackers, bottle rockets, and Roman candles) are illegal in Massachusetts, even if purchased elsewhere.

• Sparklers burn at up to 2,000°F, hot enough to melt glass and some metals. Keep them away from children and flammable materials.

  
  

The American Pyrotechnics Association estimates that over 9,800 fireworks-related injuries occurred in 2023. With proper safety practices, you can avoid becoming part of that statistic.

Grill with Care

• Keep grills at least 10 feet from buildings, overhangs, or flammable surfaces and materials.

• Never grill on porches, balconies, or fire escapes.

• Clean grease buildup to avoid flare-ups.

• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

  
  

If your building has a monitored fire alarm system, excessive smoke could set off a detector, so be mindful of grill placement and airflow. 

Practice Campfire & Fire Pit Safety

• Use only fire pits or rings that are safety-certified and compliant with local fire regulations.

• Never leave a fire unattended, even for a minute.

• Fully extinguish fires with water and stir the ashes until all embers have gone out.

Prepare Your Facility if You’re Hosting an Event

If you're part of a municipal establishment, school, or community center hosting an event:

• Check that all fire exits are clearly marked and unobstructed.

• Test emergency lighting and signage.

• Know how to manually activate your fire alarm or public address system.

• Have trained staff on hand who know the evacuation plan.

Have a Safe and Happy 4th of July

Need a quick inspection before your event? We’re happy to help.

At L.W. Bills Company, we’re proud to support the communities that keep Massachusetts safe. If you have any concerns about your fire alarm system before your holiday event, give us a call.