(tn.gov/Peg Broadcasting News)
During the upcoming New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day holidays (Dec. 31 and Jan. 1), the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI) and the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office urge Tennesseans to consider the financial and physical risks that can arise from a fireworks-related mishap. Accidental fires or damages caused by fireworks in a Tennessee municipality that bans fireworks may not be covered by traditional homeowners or renters insurance policies thus putting the financial burden of making repairs solely on the shoulders of consumers. Additionally, consumer fireworks pose a hazard to Tennesseans’ health and safety, especially to young people. Nationwide, an estimated 9,100 fireworks injuries were treated at hospital emergency departments in 2018 while 36 percent of fireworks injuries were to children younger than 15 years old. Heading into the new year, TDCI reminds consumers to remember the financial, legal and safety risks that come from consumer fireworks. For more fire safety information, visit tn.gov/fire.