Hope Karnopp
The City of Racine Fire Department is calling attention to three structure fires within two hours caused by improper disposal of fireworks, causing $141,000 in combined damage.
In one case, the American Red Cross was called to help residents find temporary housing after a fire caused by fireworks. No injuries were reported among residents or firefighters across the three fires.
All fires happened in the early morning hours of July 5. The first was a report of a dumpster fire near the 2000 block of Lathrop Avenue about 12:05 a.m.
Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire and prevented the adjacent business from sustaining damage. The dumpster and a nearby fence were heavily damaged, with estimated damages of $6,000.
"Spent fireworks were found in the dumpster and in the parking lot where the dumpster was located," Lt. Dave Nagl wrote in a news release.
At 1:09 a.m., the department was called to the 2800 block of Brentwood Drive for a house fire, where residents were alerted by fire alarms and called 911.
Much of the exterior of the home and kitchen sustained heavy fire damage, and the first floor had additional smoke and water damage.
Damage estimates for the home include $82,000 to the structure and $15,000 for the contents.
At 1:39 a.m., the department was called to a third fire on the 3400 block of Fifth Avenue after a resident saw a glow in the backyard and called 911.
A detached garage was fully engulfed in fire, with flames spreading to additional properties. The garage was a total loss, with damage estimates reaching $35,000 for the structure and $3,000 for the contents.
Neither home fire was considered suspicious, and the Racine Fire Department said improper disposal of fireworks was the cause.
How to safely dispose of spent fireworks
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services gives these tips for safe disposal and handling of fireworks:
- Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water before putting them in a trash can.
- Never re-light a "dud" firework – wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
- Always have water handy, like a garden hose or bucket, when lighting fireworks.
- Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials.
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