FREEPORT, Fla. — A Fourth of July celebration ended with a garage destroyed and a home damaged after improperly discarded fireworks are believed to have started a fire Saturday night.
According to Walton County Fire Rescue, crews were dispatched at approximately 9:12 p.m. on July 4 to a residence on County Highway 83A East after a 911 caller reported a structure fire.
When firefighters arrived, they found a detached garage fully engulfed in flames, with the fire already spreading to the nearby home.
Firefighters launched an aggressive attack from multiple sides of the structures to stop the fire from spreading further. Eglin Air Force Base Fire & Emergency Services responded to assist with suppression efforts.
The blaze was brought under control in just over 40 minutes.
No injuries were reported.
Fire officials believe the fire was caused by the improper disposal of used fireworks, though the incident remains under investigation.
“This is exactly why we stress fireworks safety every year,” Fire Chief Jonathon Davis said. “Even after the show is over, fireworks can stay hot enough to start a fire. Taking a few extra minutes to soak them before throwing them away can protect your home and your family.”
Walton County Fire Rescue is reminding residents to soak used fireworks in water before placing them in a metal container for disposal. Officials also recommend keeping discarded fireworks away from homes, garages, and other combustible materials.