Should You Allow Fireworks At Your Inn?

Fireworks are a staple of the Fourth of July and many other celebrations, but remember to take precautions to ensure your Inn is safe and accident-free. Even mild fireworks—such as sparklers—can get hot enough to burn through clothing or ignite surrounding greenery, causing major problems. To help answer the question, “Should I allow fireworks at my Inn?” we’re discussing the risks and alternatives to lighting off fireworks.

The Risks of Fireworks at Your Inn

Unfortunately, many people do not realize just how dangerous fireworks and sparklers can be—which is a primary reason that injuries occur. Fireworks can not only injure the users but can also affect bystanders.

Bottle rockets and firecrackers can fly in any direction and may explode on or near someone instead of up in the air. Sparklers are beautiful during celebrations, but are also a huge risk, as they burn at very high temperatures and are often given to children too young to use them safely. All fireworks pose potential risks of burn, blindness and other injuries.

Aside from injuries, home insurance claims and fires also play a big role in this tradition. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), if a fire is started by someone who’s not a family member, you’re covered whether the firework was legal or not. However, allowing your guests to set off fireworks, even sparklers opens you up to major risks such as property damage and loss of income.

Tips for Safe Use

If your state and county allow consumer fireworks and you feel comfortable letting your team light them off at your property, it’s a wise idea to brief them on firework safety. Even basic information such as following the directions on the back of the fireworks’ packaging could save them from getting severely burned. Here are some suggestions to ensure safety and avoid accidents:

• Use fireworks and sparklers outdoors only.
• Always have a hose, fire extinguisher or water bucket handy.
• Use a flashlight if lighting off fireworks at night.
• Do not shoot fireworks off if under the influence of alcohol.
• Only use fireworks as intended. Do not alter or combine them, and do not use homemade fireworks.
• Keep spectators a safe distance away. It is recommended to shoot with a 150ft. distance between the audience and the launch site.
• Never give sparklers to young children.
• Show children how to properly hold sparklers, how to stay far enough away from other children, and what not to do (throw, run or fight with a sparkler in hand)—but supervise closely, regardless.
• Point fireworks away from people, homes, trees, etc.
• Set up fireworks on a flat, hard and level surface.
• Never try to relight a dud (a firework that didn’t properly ignite).
• Soak all firework debris in water before throwing it away.

If you don’t feel comfortable with taking on the responsibility of handling and lighting off fireworks, hiring a pyro technician can be great help. They will set up a dazzling display and discharge the fireworks safely. Depending on the state, some firework operators will need to be licensed.

Provide Firework Show Information

Fireworks are synonymous with the Fourth of July. If you decide to not shoot off fireworks, you can always direct your guests to awesome nearby fireworks shows. Promoting where your Inn is situated in relation to the show, may reel in the perfect crowd.

Make sure to list all fireworks, or Fourth of July celebration shows happening near your Inn. Don’t forget to include the distances to all of them from your Bed and Breakfast and add in a few parking tips.

Keep Calm and Sparkle On

Go out with a bang for the right reasons. Make firework safety a priority at your Inn this Fourth of July. Speak with a team member today to learn more about protecting your business through CBIZ Innkeepers Insurance.

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

Don’t Let Your Inn Be on the Rocks Bed & Breakfast Safety Audit