The Fourth of July holds a special place in the American story — and in the lives of homeowners across Vermont. It’s a day defined by freedom, family, and celebration. Grills are fired up, flags are flown, and neighborhoods fill with the scent of charcoal and the sound of laughter. But amid the festivities, it’s also a day when safety matters more than most people realize.
As someone who’s worn more than one hat in the service of public safety — firefighter, EMT, construction professional, and now licensed home inspector — I’ve seen firsthand how small oversights can lead to big problems. Whether it’s a misplaced firework, an overloaded outlet, or a forgotten smoke detector, preventable hazards don’t take holidays off.
That’s why at Green Mountain Property Inspections, safety isn’t just a checklist — it’s a mindset. And it’s one I bring with me to every inspection, every report, and every client conversation.
A Commitment That Started Long Before the Toolkit
Before I founded Green Mountain Property Inspections, I spent years in the fire service and emergency response. The job taught me more than tactics and teamwork — it shaped the way I see buildings, systems, and safety risks. It taught me to respect what goes unseen.
That background, combined with years of hands-on construction experience, is what informs the inspections I do today. It’s why I pay attention to the wiring tucked into an attic, the subtle lean in a deck post, or the slightly scorched outlet near a kitchen counter. These aren’t just defects. They’re clues — subtle indicators that a home may not be as safe or efficient as it appears.
That detail-oriented mindset is what I’ve built my business on. Whether I’m working with a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or a homeowner looking for peace of mind, my job is to surface the information that matters most. Especially when it comes to safety.
Fourth of July: Where Fun and Fire Risk Collide
July 4th is the biggest day of the year for fireworks — and unfortunately, for fire-related accidents. Grills, sparklers, electrical cords strung across lawns — they all carry potential hazards if overlooked.
As you prepare to celebrate, here are a few quick safety tips I’d encourage any homeowner to consider:
- Check your outlets – Outdoor receptacles should be GFCI-protected and weather-resistant. If you’re running extension cords for lighting or sound systems, avoid overloading circuits.
- Mind your grill – Keep propane or charcoal grills at least 10 feet from siding, deck railings, or low-hanging branches. Clean out grease traps regularly to reduce fire risk.
- Watch the fireworks – Even small sparklers burn at nearly 2,000°F. Keep a bucket of water nearby, supervise kids closely, and never re-light duds.
- Inspect your deck – Before hosting guests, take a look at your deck’s support posts, railings, and stairs. Loose boards or unstable footings can turn a celebration into an ER visit.
- Test your detectors – Make sure smoke and CO alarms are operational. They’re the last line of defense when something goes wrong.
Most of these tips take five minutes or less. But they can be the difference between a safe, memorable holiday and a preventable emergency.
Homeownership and Independence: A Shared Responsibility
There’s a deeper connection between the Fourth of July and home inspections than you might expect. Independence isn’t just a political concept — it’s something we protect every day as homeowners. We strive for autonomy, for security, for the right to build a life without uncertainty.
That starts with the home itself.
A thorough inspection gives you knowledge. And knowledge gives you choices — whether you’re negotiating a purchase, planning renovations, or simply understanding your home’s long-term needs. It’s about making informed decisions, not reactive ones.
And just like good governance, good homeownership depends on accountability. That’s the standard I hold myself to every time I walk into a crawlspace or open a service panel.
Wrapping Up: Safety First, Celebration Always
At Green Mountain Property Inspections, my mission is to help you enjoy your home — not worry about it. Whether you’re lighting sparklers with your kids, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply relaxing on your porch with a view of Vermont’s fireworks, you deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is safe.
So this Independence Day, enjoy everything the season brings. Just take a moment to remember: safety isn’t a barrier to fun. It’s what makes fun possible.
Happy Fourth. Stay safe, and enjoy your home.
The Inspector's Notebook 
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