PRESS RELEASE (June 27, 2019) — Planning Independence Day festivities? People are urged to celebrate safely. July often has some of the highest incidents of traffic and boating accidents; vehicle and watercraft thefts and, of course, injuries and property damage related to fireworks. The state’s largest insurer, State Farm, wants everyone to practice safety this 4th of July.
Fireworks Safety | Nearly 20,000 reports of fireworks-associated fires each year.
- To avoid injury and property damage, use caution when handling fireworks.
- Always purchase fireworks from a licensed vendor.
- Check local laws and ordinances.
- Have water, an extinguisher, and first-aid kit nearby.
- Ignite fireworks one at a time in cleared areas on a hard, flat, and level surface.
- Secure dogs and other pets in a quiet space at home.
Hosting the Party | Use this house party guide to stay safe and keep guests safe too.
- Mind the rules: Check your lease or homeowner’s association rules about hosting gatherings in your home.
- Check your coverage: A quiet gathering can sometimes lead to an accident, guest injury or property damage. Contact your State Farm agent for details about liability insurance.
- Be a Good Neighbor: Let neighbors know about your plans in case they have any concerns.
- Protect your Pets: Strangers and loud noises may frighten pets. Consider crating your pup or putting your cat behind a closed door.
- Monitor the Drive Home At least one hour before the party wraps up, stop serving alcohol and serve additional snacks. Organize rides or ride shares as necessary.
Boating Safety | July often has high instances of boating collisions and thefts.
- Review your coverage: Boat insurance policies can vary widely in what they do and do not cover based on a number of considerations, including the type of boat, the waters it will traffic, and how many months of the year the boat will be used.
- Take photos of the boat and its equipment. Make sure to add the value of boat equipment (life preservers, depth/fish finders, anchors, etc.) when deciding amount of insurance.
- Do not leave your title or registration papers in the boat.
- Remove expensive equipment when not in use.
