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Make sure your Canada Day celebrations go off with a bang and not a flop this weekend. Chances are you’re not thinking about your home or your insurance before you go to light your sparklers, rockets, or Roman candles – but unfortunately, fireworks are the cause of thousands of injuries and millions of dollars of property damage each year in Canada.

Fireworks burn at over 600°C, which is a bit more than the temperature wood burns at. If a firework were to land on your roof, in a tree, or or in your neighbour’s yard, it’s safe to say you’d have an emergency on your hands.

Here are some ways your home and insurance won’t explode along with your fireworks this weekend:

Know the Law

Each municipality has different laws governing the use of fireworks. For example, you may be required to have a permit, or fireworks that are considered “low hazard”. Research how to safely, and legally, set off your fireworks in your area because those laws are accounting for risks you might not be aware of.

Know Your Insurance Policy

If one of your fireworks burns your home, or your neighbour’s home, will you be covered? All policies are different, and will take into account the laws that govern where you’re located. Being mindful of your liability can influence smarter decisions.

Have a Fire Extinguisher

Having a fire extinguisher accessible is a great precaution to take in the event that something goes wrong. You’ll be able to take immediate action, if it’s safe to do so, and ultimately reduce potential damage to your property.

Think About It

Take the time to clear a flat, sturdy area for setting off your fireworks that’s about 40m from your home. It’s recommended that you set them off from a stone or concrete surface as opposed to grass. Additionally, light them one at a time when they are upright as opposed to laying down or in your hand, and don’t let children or anyone under the influence near the explosives. If you get a dud, wait at least 10 minutes before going near or disposing of the firework as there’s a chance it could still go off.

Check the Weather

Wind can take your fireworks or their sparks from a safe distance to a dangerous distance in a matter of seconds – don’t chance it! Many municipalities will allow residents to set off fireworks on an alternate day if the weather isn’t great on the day of celebration.

Property is always replaceable – after all, WINMAR is here for you even on Canada Day weekend – but protecting the lives and the health of your loved ones is far more important. Please be safe with your fireworks, and have fun this Canada Day!