Denver Gazette’s Noah Festenstein reports on two separate Fourth of July house fires in south-metro Denver—both sparked by improperly discarded fireworks—that displaced families, injured first responders, and sent pets to safety.
The Bullet Point Brief
- Midnight inferno: Just after 12 a.m., fireworks embers ignited a blaze at 5268 S. Crocker Way in Littleton; firefighters evacuated residents, rescued a cat, and tallied heavy damage.
- Hour-two uproar: Less than 45 minutes later, a second fire at 15587 Pebblewood Court in Douglas County saw deputies evacuating neighbors while units rescued multiple dogs and two cats—and a car caught fire in the garage.
- Heroic hiccups: Four Douglas County deputies suffered smoke inhalation, were treated on-scene, and have since recovered—proof that “celebrate safely” isn’t just bumper-sticker advice.
- Ember caution: Officials warn that even “dead” fireworks can reignite days later—never stash used fireworks indoors or in plastic bins.
- Call for pros: West Metro Fire and other departments saw a spike in calls Saturday night, underscoring that DIY pyrotechnics can quickly turn neighbors’ block into a disaster zone.
My Bottomline
I adore the Fourth as much as anyone—flags, backyard grills, and the freedom to celebrate. But when vets are flinching at every pop and your pup’s hiding under the bed, maybe it’s time to retire the bottle rockets. If you’re itching for fireworks, pony up for a ticketed, pros-only show: fewer house fires, fewer PTSD triggers, and your wallet avoids the inferno too. Let’s keep the sparks on stage—not in our attics or on our roofs.
