FIREWORK SAFETY TIPS 

Fireworks City loves the joy and excitement fireworks bring to every celebration. Fireworks and American tradition go hand in hand, especially when celebrating our independence on the 4^th of July. Therefore, whether you are celebrating the 4^th of July, a wedding, a birthday or the New Year, we recommend that you follow the below safety tips.

Obey All Local and State Laws –

Every state and local municipality has specific laws regarding the sale and use of all state approved fireworks, so please contact local authorities and fire officials to understand all ordinances concerning the purchase and use of fireworks.

Always Remember to Use Your Head –

When in doubt, use your common sense when handling fireworks.  For example, read all directions and warning labels on every firework device, follow the printed instructions, and understand how each firework will perform.

Keep Water Nearby –

Keep a bucket of water, a hose, and/or a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.

Adults Handle Fireworks –

Children should never handle or light fireworks no matter how big or small. Therefore, only adults should handle and light fireworks according to each item’s specific instructions to avoid improper use.

Absolutely No Alcohol –

Consuming alcohol or drugs increases the possibility of misuse or injury to yourself and others.

Use Hard, Flat, & Level Surfacing –

Do not light your fireworks on an unstable surface as this could cause the fireworks to tip over. Always light your fireworks on a hard, flat, and level surface. If on grass, use a flat board made of wood as a shooting surface.

Stand Back and Keep Your Distance –

Use fireworks outdoors in a clear, open area away from buildings and vehicles. In addition, avoid dry grass, brush, and other flammable items. Spectators, especially children, should remain a safe distance away from the shooting area, generally 8-13 yards for fountains and ground based items and 75-100 yards for an aerial product. If windy conditions exist, fireworks should be lit with the prevailing wind blowing away from the audience.

Protect Yourself –

Never put your head or any part of your body over a firework, never look into a tube to inspect a firework, and never hold a lit firework in your hand.

Lighting Fireworks –

The person lighting fireworks should wear eye protection at all times. In addition, always light fireworks with punk or an extended butane lighting device in order to keep the maximum distance from the firework. Fireworks should only be lit one at a time. Use a flashlight when lighting fireworks at night. Don’t attempt to re-light a “dud.” If a firework fails to ignite, let stand for at least 5 minutes, then immerse in water.

Always Handle Fireworks with Care –

Do not carry fireworks in your pocket and store them in a cool, dry place. Most importantly, do not aim or throw fireworks at another person.

Animals and Fireworks –

Pets and farm animals may be frightened by the noise and lights of fireworks. Therefore, you may want to keep pets inside or move animals away during your fireworks show.

Reputable Source –

Only buy fireworks from reliable and licensed dealers. Licensed and reliable dealers only carry products that meet standards set forth by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. In other words, do not use illegal explosives, alter any firework devices, or attempt to make your own fireworks.