Is Your Roof Ready for Fireworks Season?
Sometimes the best view of the Portland and Vancouver fireworks is from your own roof. Watch safely and prevent accidental roof fires with these tips.
Clean your roof to prevent an accidental fire
Now is the time to schedule your professional roof and gutter cleaning to remove moss, dry leaves, pine cones, and small branches. This kind of debris on your roof, even if it’s just a small amount, can catch stray sparks from neighborhood fireworks. Most roofing materials are treated to be fire resistant, but there are still over 15,000 structure fires in the United States that are attributed to fireworks.
During a professional roof cleaning, your roof will also be inspected for missing and cracked shingles or any other hazards that can lead to fire vulnerability. Not only will this protect your home, but it will also make for a more comfortable and clean seat if you decide to watch the fireworks from your roof.
Trim your trees
Even if you aren’t ascending a ladder on the 4th to watch the fireworks display, any overhanging tree branches can catch firework sparks that can quickly jump to your roof. These branches can also brush against your roof, causing damage to shingles with every gust of wind.
Trimming branches near your roof line is a task that requires the proper safety equipment and skills. Also, consider that a falling tree branch can cause property damage as well. Hiring a professional is your safest bet when it comes to tree trimming, but if you want to go the DIY route, be sure to read up on how to do the job.
Keep fireworks away from your home
This seems like a no-brainer, but there are so many accidents attributed to fireworks that it bears repeating. Don’t point fireworks toward your home and be sure there is a safe distance between the fireworks and any structures and trees. Remember, most fireworks are often still burning as they fall from the sky. If you are putting together a fireworks display, read up on safety measures.
Watch the weather
If it’s hot and dry in the Portland-metro area at the beginning of July, avoid personal firework displays. Even if you won’t be lighting fireworks, your neighbors might. Start watering your landscape a few days prior to the 4th so your property isn’t a tinderbox waiting for a stray spark.
Fireworks and the 4th of July go hand-in-hand. With these tips, you and your family will be safe. Now, enjoy our beautiful waterfront fireworks display, and maybe a homegrown show as well.
