PEMCO reminds community members of Independence Day safety

SEATTLE – In preparation for Independence Day, PEMCO Mutual Insurance, the Northwest’s largest locally based home and auto insurer, reminds community members to take extreme caution when it comes to fireworks.  

With the safety of the Pacific Northwest in mind, PEMCO calls on residents to be vigilant about fire safety this year. Per the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, on July 4, 2023, six wildfires in the Pacific Cascade Region were a direct result of personal fireworks. According to 2023 Seattle emergency responder dispatch logs, there were more than 34 fire-related calls citywide on Independence Day alone. In Portland, more than 25 fires occurred on the Fourth of July last year.  

“These human-caused wildfire and firework-related injuries are fully preventable,” said PEMCO Chief Claims Officer, Calvin Strong. “Acting on our commitment to risk prevention throughout the community, we can’t stress enough the importance of taking safety precautions if you wish to use fireworks to celebrate the Fourth of July.” 

A warmer and drier spring is fueling an elevated risk of wildfires this summer in southeast Oregon and western Washington. With a drought declaration in Washington and less-than-average rainfall in Southeast and central Oregon the risk for wildfire is high.  

“If you have the option, you should always attend a professional firework show rather than lighting off fireworks yourself,” said Strong. “We ask that everyone use common sense and be safe, regardless of your plans for the Fourth.” 

To learn more about fireworks safety from PEMCO Insurance, please visit: https://pemco.com/blog/fireworks-safety-july-4  

To learn more about wildfire prevention from PEMCO Insurance, please visit Pemco.com/DontGetBurned.   

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About PEMCO Mutual Insurance 

PEMCO Mutual Insurance has been serving the Pacific Northwest for 75 years.  PEMCO provides auto, home, renters, and boat coverage. In addition to this recognition by J. D. Powers, we are honored to have been recognized as a Best American Insurance Company by Forbes Magazine – also based on customer feedback. We distinguish ourselves through award-winning customer service, industry expertise, and social impact programs focused on supporting youth and education; building greener environments; and increasing risk awareness and safety. To learn more, visit www.pemco.com.