As towns cancel fireworks celebrations because of the coronavirus pandemic, many more backyard and neighborhood fireworks displays will likely take place on July Fourth.

In New York City, more than 12,500 calls were made to 911 for illegal fireworks in June alone – roughly  12 times the number of comparable calls received  in the first six months of 2019.

Though fireworks are legal in some form in most states, they can be very dangerous when not handled by professionals. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks caused 19,500 fires in 2018. A recent wildfire in Utah that prompted the evacuation of 100 homes was attributed to fireworks.

And nearly 4,900 Americans go to the emergency room with fireworks-related injuries during the first eight days of July, according to the Pew Research Center.  

The video above explains the insurance coverage available for fireworks-related damage or injury. For example, if a neighbor’s fireworks damage your home, their homeowners policy should cover you. But if you are setting off illegal fireworks, remember: homeowners insurance  doesn’t usually cover accidents caused by illegal actions.

For Fourth of July  safety tips, click here.

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday!