Celebrate Safely This 4th of July

Fire Safety Tips to Protect Your Family, Property, and Business

The 4th of July is one of the most celebrated holidays of the year — and one of the most dangerous for fires. According to the National Fire Protection Association, July 4th is consistently the peak day for U.S. fires started by fireworks, with thousands of injuries and millions of dollars in property damage reported each year.

At Ted Hamm Insurance Agency, we want you to enjoy every sparkle of the celebration — safely. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, managing a commercial property, or operating a ranch on the Central Coast, here’s what you need to know before the fireworks fly.

1. Know the Law Before You Light Anything

Fireworks laws vary by city and county in California. In many parts of San Luis Obispo County — including Paso Robles — consumer fireworks are prohibited year-round. “Safe and Sane” fireworks may be legal in some jurisdictions during designated windows, but aerial and exploding devices are banned statewide.

• Check with your local fire department or city website before purchasing any fireworks.
• Illegal fireworks can void your homeowner’s or commercial property insurance claim.
• Attend a professional public fireworks show — it’s always the safest option.

2. Backyard BBQ Fire Safety

Grilling is a Fourth of July tradition — but it’s also a leading cause of home fires during the holiday. Keep these basics in mind:

• Keep grills at least 10 feet away from your home, deck railing, and dry vegetation.
• Never leave a lit grill unattended.
• Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby at all times.
• Check gas lines and connections before firing up a propane grill.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill at all times.

3. Protect Your Property — and Your Neighbors’

Central Coast summers are dry and windy — the perfect conditions for a spark to become a wildfire. Take proactive steps:

• Clear dry grass, brush, and debris from around your home at least 100 feet in all directions (California law).
• Water your lawn and landscaping in the days leading up to the holiday.
• Store flammable materials — propane tanks, fuel cans, lumber — away from the main structure.
• If you are a farm or ranch owner, make sure field roads are passable for emergency vehicles.

4. For Business Owners and Commercial Properties

If you’re a business owner or property manager, the holiday weekend comes with added risk — especially if your property sits vacant or hosts events:

• Review your commercial property and general liability coverage before hosting any public events.
• Confirm your policy covers fire damage to inventory, equipment, and structures.
• Make sure fire extinguishers are inspected and accessible throughout your facility.
• If you have employees working holiday hours, verify your Workers’ Comp is current and adequate.

5. What to Do If Fire Breaks Out

• Call 911 immediately — don’t try to fight a large fire on your own.
• Evacuate everyone from the area.
• Once safe, document any property damage with photos before cleanup begins.
• Contact your insurance agent promptly to start the claims process.
• Keep receipts and records of any emergency expenses — many policies reimburse them.

 

Is Your Coverage Ready for Summer?

Don’t wait until after an incident to find out you have a gap. Ted Hamm Insurance Agency specializes in commercial, farm, ranch, and contractor accounts across the Central Coast. We offer personalized coverage reviews — no jargon, no runaround.

Call or visit us today:

Ted Hamm Insurance Agency / PacWest Alliance Insurance Services

1503 Park St., Suite 1  |  Paso Robles, CA

dayleen@thiapaso.com