As summer sets in and holidays like Independence Day draw near, many organizations are planning celebratory events that may include fireworks. While fireworks can be a dazzling highlight, they also introduce significant risks that can lead to property damage, personal injury and liability claims.

For organizations committed to their mission and community, ensuring safety during these events is not just a best practice—it’s a responsibility. This article presents essential firework safety practices through a risk management lens, empowering organizations to host safe and successful celebrations.

Understanding the risks

Fireworks, while visually stunning, come with serious safety risks. Each year, thousands of people suffer injuries related to fireworks, often requiring emergency medical attention. These incidents can range from minor burns to more severe trauma. But the danger doesn’t stop at personal injury—fireworks are also a leading cause of property damage, sparking thousands of fires each year and resulting in millions of dollars in property losses nationwide.

For insured organizations, these incidents can lead to:

• General liability claims from injuries to volunteers or event attendees.
• Damage to buildings, vehicles or surrounding property.
• Workers’ compensation claims if employees are injured.
• Reputational harm that can impact community trust, financial support and more.

Risk control strategies for firework safety

1. Evaluate the necessity of fireworks.

Before planning a fireworks display, consider whether it aligns with your organization’s mission and risk tolerance. Alternatives like laser light shows or drone displays can offer a safer, equally engaging experience with fewer liabilities.

2. Hire licensed professionals.

If fireworks are essential to your event, always hire a licensed and insured pyrotechnics company. Verify or obtain that the vendor:

• Holds valid state and local permits.
• Has a proven safety record.
• Executes a written contract which places the responsibility for any physical or personal injury arise from the pyrotechnics to the vendor.  Work with your local attorney to assist in the review and/or drafting of said agreement.
• Provides certificates of insurance with adequate liability coverage.
• Conducts a site inspection and risk assessment.

Avoid DIY fireworks or allowing volunteers to handle pyrotechnics under any circumstances.

3. Secure the venue.

Work with your vendor and local authorities to ensure the display site meets safety standards:

• Maintain a minimum safety radius (typically 500 feet) between the launch site and spectators, buildings and vehicles.
• Clear the area of dry grass, brush or flammable materials.
• Use barriers or fencing to restrict access to the launch zone.
• Designate emergency exits and ensure they are clearly marked and unobstructed.

4. Coordinate with local authorities.

Notify and coordinate with:

• Fire departments for standby support and fire prevention.
• Police departments for crowd control and traffic management.
• Emergency medical services for on-site or nearby response.

Ensure all permits are obtained well in advance and that your event complies with local fire codes and ordinances.

5. Develop an emergency response plan.

Prepare for the unexpected with a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes:

• Evacuation procedures.
• Fire suppression equipment – e.g., extinguishers, water sources.
• First aid stations and trained personnel.
• Communication protocols for staff and volunteers.

Conduct a pre-event safety briefing with all stakeholders, including vendors, staff and emergency responders.

6. Educate and communicate.

Inform attendees about safety protocols through signage, announcements and digital communications. Key messages should instruct attendees to:

• Stay behind safety barriers.
• Always supervise children.
• Refrain from lighting personal fireworks or sparklers.
• Report suspicious or unsafe behavior.

Clear communication reduces confusion and enhances compliance during the event.

Insurance considerations

Before hosting a fireworks display, review your insurance policies with your carrier. Key questions to ask include:

• Does your general liability policy cover fireworks-related incidents?
• Are there exclusions for pyrotechnics or large gatherings?
• Do you need a special event policy or rider for additional protection?
• Is your vendor’s insurance primary or secondary to your own?

Document all safety measures and vendor agreements to support any potential claims and demonstrate due diligence.

Celebrate with confidence

Fireworks can bring communities together in celebration, but they also carry serious risks that must be managed with care. By implementing proactive risk control strategies, organizations can protect their people, property and mission—while still delivering memorable experiences.

Click here to access more safety resources, information and tools to help your organization reduce risk for greater peace of mind.

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The information contained in these materials is intended solely to provide general guidance on topics that may be of interest to you. While we have made reasonable efforts to present accurate and reliable information, Church Mutual Insurance Company, S.I. and its affiliates disclaim all liability for any errors or omissions or for any actions you take or fail to take based on these materials. The information provided may not apply to your particular facts or circumstances; therefore, you should seek professional advice prior to relying on any information that may be found in these materials.