By Keith Pomonis - Celebrating 250 Years of Independence with tips from EHS Restoration.
(June 3, 2026) -- This July 4th, the United States is hitting a massive milestone: its semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. A quarter-millennium is a huge deal, and backyards from coast to coast are gearing up for unforgettable celebrations.
For safe celebrations, take cues from EHS Restoration to ensure your festivities are enjoyable and incident-free.
But while the patriotism is high and the urge to light up the night sky is strong, nobody wants their neighborhood block party to end with a visit from the fire department.
When the Founding Fathers signed the paperwork in 1776, John Adams famously wrote that the holiday should be celebrated with "bonfires and illuminations." Interestingly enough, July 4th wasn't actually declared a federal holiday until 1870, nearly a century later. Another fun historical twist?
Both Thomas Jefferson and John Adams died on July 4th, 1826, exactly 50 years after signing the Declaration. It seems history loves a dramatic anniversary as much as we love a great fireworks show.
To keep the 250th anniversary memorable for the right reasons, a few down-to-earth safety rules are essential. The easiest option is to leave it to the pros. Cities across the country are putting together unprecedented, massive public displays for this milestone. If you do decide to host a DIY show at home, a little common sense goes a long way.
First, keep the drinks and the lighter fluid strictly separate. Lighting explosives requires sharp reflexes and clear judgment. If adult beverages are a part of your gathering, pick a designated "pyrotechnic captain" who stays completely sober to handle the fuses.
Second, don't underestimate sparklers. They are often handed out to kids like oversized glowing toothpicks, but they actually burn at temperatures between 1,200 and 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. That is hot enough to melt glass and gold. Always keep an eye on kids, and make sure spent sparklers go straight into a bucket of water instead of the dry grass.
Third, create a solid safety zone. Always set up on flat, hard, non-flammable ground like concrete, and keep spectators back at a safe distance. If a firework fails to go off, never sneak back up to try and relight it. That "dud" is a ticking clock; give it 20 minutes, then use a shovel to drop it into a bucket of water.
Finally, remember to look up your local ordinances. Many municipalities have strict bans or limitations on consumer fireworks, especially during dry seasons when the threat of wildfires is high.
The 250th Fourth of July is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. By taking a few quick safety steps and keeping a garden hose nearby, we can ensure the holiday stays historic, spectacular, and completely injury-free.
Have a happy and safe semiquincentennial.
Keith Pomonis is the President of Mesa-based EHS Restoration. For more information call (480) 306-5777 or visit ehsrestoration.com.