Tips for a Safe July 4th Holiday in Your Community Association
June 28, 2023
Are you looking forward to the Fourth of July? For many people, it’s the perfect time to be with neighbors, friends, and family, do a little swimming, grill burgers, and enjoy fireworks once the sun goes down.
As you look forward to the fun and festivities, keep in mind the following tips to ensure that you, your family, and your community enjoy a safe July 4th holiday.
1. Understand Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Take time before the holiday to read and understand what your homeowner’s insurance policy covers if, in the use of fireworks,
- a guest or pet is injured,
- an accident occurs,
- or property gets damaged.
If these situations take place on your property, you could be financially and legally responsible. Victims of accidents or damage may be able to seek financial compensation.
2. Be Mindful of HOA Declarations
Take time to read your HOA’s declarations about using fireworks in the community. Some homeowners’ associations don’t allow fireworks at all. Violating these declarations could be considered a breach of contract that could jeopardize your HOA agreement, not to mention strain relationships with your neighbors.
3. Keep Local Laws in Mind
Not only do you need to keep your HOA declarations in mind, but it’s wise to familiarize yourself with regulations in the broader community and city—especially if you want to set off fireworks outside your HOA. Abide by local municipal codes and be aware of the areas where fireworks are prohibited or restricted. Some zones could be governed by noise ordinances.
4. Use Only Legal Fireworks
To keep everyone safe, be sure to only use fireworks that have been purchased legally and approved for use by local authorities. You should never use illegal fireworks. Fireworks should never be left unattended in the shared areas of an HOA, used in wooded areas, or set off near houses and vehicles.
5. Supervise Children
Always supervise children using fireworks. Everybody wants to see kids have fun, but if they are inexperienced, accidents can easily happen. Consider letting the younger ones enjoy sparklers while an adult handles the larger fireworks.
6. Grill with Caution
Keep in mind fire safety during this weekend that’s so popular for grilling out. Having a bunch of people over for a party? Watch where you set up your grill. Make sure there’s enough room around it for traffic, and keep an eye on kids running around or coming up close for hot dogs or burgers. The same goes for an open fire pit. Stay alert and avoid accidents.
7. Water Safety Matters
There’s nothing better than going for a cool swim on a hot day, and when you have a July 4th pool party that mixes lots of people with water, it’s a recipe for fun. Keep the fun going all day long by being careful and watchful so that everyone stays safe. Always keep an eye on young kids and make sure that poor or inexperienced swimmers don’t get left in the pool alone.
8. Keep Pets Inside
Most animals are not big fans of the noise of fireworks. Some pets, especially dogs, can get very frightened by loud noises. Keeping them indoors will ensure that they feel safer, and it will also keep them from running away if they get frightened.
9. Be Alert and Aware
If you plan to drive around your HOA community during the Fourth of July holiday, be mindful of children, pets, and guests that are likely to be outdoors relaxing, wandering, and celebrating. Slow down and drive with caution so that everyone stays safe.
Keep these safety tips in mind, and enjoy the holiday!