The National Fire Protection Association offers reports, safety tips and other resources to the media working on Fourth of July stories and other topics related to summer safety. Topics include fireworks, lightning, grilling, water safety, bike and pedestrian safety and disaster preparedness. These materials are available at NFPA’s Web site.

According to NFPA, more U.S. fires are reported on July 4 than on any other day, half of which are caused by fireworks. In 2005, gas and charcoal grills caused 3,400 structure fires and 4,900 outdoor fires in or on home properties, resulting in a combined direct property loss of $137 million. Fires started by lightning peak in the summer months and in the late afternoon and early evening.