The gasoline and gunpowder gang’s biggest holiday of the year is once again upon us, so we’ll take this opportunity to pass along the same advice we offered last year…
“This Independence Day weekend, don’t let the celebration turn to tragedy. Keep a garden hose or fire extinguisher at the ready to dowse any hot embers or other potential troublemakers. Fill a bucket with water for use as a trash receptacle for your hot sparkler rods and other pyrotechnic waste. Have non-combustible lids or covers handy to smother any flare ups while you’re grilling. Don’t forget, they’ll be plenty of testosterone and adrenaline circulating to keep the festivities exciting, so skip the alcohol and energy drinks if you’re driving or lighting off fireworks; things don’t need to be any more explosive. And remember, the anthem’s lyrics say, “…the rockets red glare, bombs bursting in air…”, not burning your neighbor’s garage down, so maintain a safe distance with your grills, camp fires, and July 4th displays, won’t you please?”
Perhaps you don’t consider yourself part of the gasoline and gunpowder subculture and think yourself immune from the threat of fire this weekend. Well, think again. The period coinciding with the Independence Day observance during 2026 has the potential to see more fires started by BOMBs (Battery Operated Motorized Bikes) and other lithium-ion powered conveyances, tools, and electronics than ever before. The popularity of these fast-charging devices has placed them in almost every home and workplace in the region. As more and more of them come into daily use, the frequency of battery failures resulting in sometimes catastrophic fires is escalating.
Recharging lithium-ion powered bikes and other devices inside of occupied buildings (or garages and sheds attached to occupied buildings) is risky business. Never charge or store an e-bike in a doorway, stairway, hallway, or other egress route within a structure. When not in use, consider keeping and re-energizing these devices in buildings or designated places located away from occupied spaces, preferably in non-combustible surroundings. The London Fire Brigade offers these helpful tips for charging e-bikes and e-scooters.
The United States Fire Administration provides these quick tips to improve safety when using lithium-ion powered devices…
Remember: while you’re recharging them, treat lithium-ion powered electronics like food on the stove—never sleep or leave them unattended.
Be safe and have a memorable weekend!