The Fourth of July is one of the most dangerous holidays of the year in the United States. The celebration causes a huge increase in wildfire risks and traffic fatalities across the country. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year.
The company ASecureLife generates a yearly report based on wildfire risk and traffic fatality rates to determine the safest and most dangerous states on the Fourth of July. California made the list as one of the top ten most dangerous state in the country. Can you guess where California ranks? Scroll for the answer.
California ranked as the fourth most dangerous state on the Fourth of July. One factor that caused California to rank so high is the risk of wildfires. In 2018, California ranked as the number one state for acres burned because of wildfires.
The state is doing its part to keep firework-related fires and injuries at a minimum. Fireworks with the 'safe and sane' sticker are sold at fireworks stands and are allowed in residential areas. The sticker means that they do not explode or leave the ground.
The safest way to watch fireworks is to attend an event or show hosted in your area. Click here to check out a list of fireworks shows happening in Northern California.
Plus, here is a map of the U.S. based on Fourth of July danger.