Fireworks Safety Tips

Fireworks can be dangerous. Protect yourself and others by always practicing firework safety. Remember these tips for a fun and safe fireworks experience.

  • Always purchase your fireworks from a reliable source.

  • Know your local laws on the dates and times fireworks are allowed to be used.

  • Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.

  • Follow instructions and use common sense.

  • A responsible adult should supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.

  • Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.

  • Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.

  • Always place aerial fireworks on a flat, hard surface. Brace them between bricks to ensure that they don’t tip over.

  • Keep your audience a safe distance away.

  • Light one firework at a time and move away quickly.

  • Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area. Keep them away from buildings and vehicles.

  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

  • Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water.

  • Always have a bucket of water and/or a charged water hose nearby.

  • Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.

  • Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks.

  • Dispose of spent fireworks by first wetting them down, then placing them in a metal trash can. Keep all remnants away from buildings and combustible materials until the next day.

For additional safety information and resources, visit the American Pyrotechnics Association.