Celebrating the Fourth of July…Minus the Fireworks

Come this Fourth of July, America will be turning 249 years old! With the holiday falling on a Friday, there is even more reason to celebrate. In the multifamily industry, many apartment communities will mark the occasion with resident events, cookouts, and community gatherings.

However, there is one tradition associated with this great holiday most properties try to avoid – fireworks. As iconic as they are to the Fourth of July, fireworks are equally burdensome to an apartment community.

Why No Fireworks

There are many reasons most apartment communities do not allow fireworks.

• Fire hazard: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that fireworks started an estimated 32,302 fires in 2023.
• Injury liability: If someone is injured, property owners may be held responsible. Landlords have a responsibility to create a safe environment and fireworks jeopardize that duty. Also, insurance companies often exclude coverage for fireworks-related accidents.
• Legal Restrictions: Fireworks are illegal in many cities and counties. Property owners can be fined should tenants break the law.
• Noise Issues: Fireworks are noise complaints waiting to happen, and property management teams try to maintain a peaceful and quiet living environment.
• Litter and Property Damage: Fireworks can damage the property. Maintenance teams must deal with the headache of cleanup.

What Can Be Done

It is clear why most apartment communities do not allow fireworks, but the fact is, many people will ignore the rules in place. So, what should be done?

• Make sure your residents are aware of any local restrictions on fireworks. Management should send out memos to residents clearly stating restrictions and repercussions.
• Promote local fireworks shows put on by municipalities or cities.
• If the apartment community allows small fireworks, like sparklers, make sure they are only allowed in designated areas during specific times.
• A robust video surveillance system can provide footage of what occurred. Cameras can identify the wrongdoers and what building units they live in.

How Watchtower Security Can Help

Watchtower Security provides fully managed video surveillance exclusively to the multifamily industry. Unwanted fireworks are one of many issues communities deal with that Watchtower can assist.

The Fourth of July is a great holiday. Enjoy it, but do so responsibly. To learn more about how Watchtower’s services can help manage your property, contact us today.