Safety with Fireworks

Holidays like the 4^th of July and other celebrations can be fun times with great memories. Fireworks are not safe in the hands of consumers.  Fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year.  Attend public fireworks displays, leave the fireworks to the professionals.    

Fireworks Safety Tip Sheet

Fireworks Infographic

Public Firework Shows and Retail Stands

Approved Fireworks List

• Consumer fireworks, namely sparklers and ground based fountains, are legal to possess and use on private property. You should only purchase legal consumer fireworks from a local business or roadside stand possessing a fireworks retail sales permit from the Frederick County Fire Marshal’s Office. These fireworks have been tested to ensure they meet the Consumer Products Safety Commission’s requirements.
• Consumer fireworks that rise into the air, explode, travel laterally on the ground or emit projectiles are illegal to possess or use anywhere in Virginia. Possession and/or use of these materials is a Class 1 Misdemeanor.
• For backyard displays using legal consumer fireworks, wet down the area before use to prevent accidental fires.  Keep a bucket of water or water hose nearby in case of malfunction or fire.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat, fireproof surface away from the house and flammable materials.
• Used fireworks should be placed in a metal container, soaked with water, and allowed to cool overnight in a location that is at least 15 feet away from any building or structure. Re-check the container in the morning to ensure nothing is smoldering, then properly dispose of the wet materials.
• Never pick up fireworks that were "duds’ or did not fire, as they may still be active! Wait 20 minutes and treat as spent fireworks, soaking overnight and placing in a metal container with a lid, away from any structure.
• Adults should supervise the use of sparklers as they burn at a temperature of more than 1,200 degrees, hot enough to cause severe burns and ignite clothing. Only light one sprinkler at a time.  Never allow young children to light sparklers.  Keep children from running while using sparklers.  After the sparklers complete burning soak them in a bucket of water prior to throwing them away.