A July Fourth celebration in Murfreesboro took a dangerous turn when discarded fireworks set a house on Sapphire Drive ablaze. According to a social media post from the Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department, crews responded to an exterior fire at the location and were able to quickly subdue the flames, saving the home from more extensive damage. The Fire Marshal's Office later confirmed that the cause of the fire was fireworks that had been improperly disposed of in a plastic trash can adjacent to the residence.
The mishandling of the spent pyrotechnics resulted in damage to the home's siding and a nearby vehicle, though fortunately, there were no injuries reported. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the risks associated with fireworks, especially when they are not handled with due care. "We're grateful for the quick response from our crews and relieved that no one was hurt," Battalion Chief Clay Estes is quoted in the Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department's statement.
In the wake of the fire, the Murfreesboro Fire Rescue Department has issued safety tips for disposing of fireworks: soaking used fireworks in water for several hours before throwing them away; ensuring fireworks are never placed near homes, vehicles, dry vegetation, or in plastic containers; and using a metal or non-combustible trash can for disposal, positioned well away from any buildings. These precautions are intended to prevent the kind of incidents that could lead to property damage or worse, personal injury.
