Six Tips for Staying Safe With Your Own Fireworks

Release: Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office

Did you know that more fires are reported on July Fourth than on any other day of the year in the U.S.? Nearly half of these fires are caused by fireworks.

Did you know that most often, children and teens between the ages of 10 and 14 are injured while using consumer fireworks? The good news is you can enjoy your holiday and the fireworks with just a few simple safety tips:

• In Loudoun County, 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 permit from the Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office. These fireworks have been tested to ensure they meet the Consumer Product 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. Local businesses will not sell these fireworks and possession and/or use of these materials is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
• For backyard displays using legal consumer fireworks, the area should be wet down before use to prevent an accidental fire. Ground-based fireworks should be placed on an open, stable and flat surface, with no one within 20 feet of a display.
• Adult supervision is critical! Adults should supervise the use of sparklers, as they burn at a temperature of more than 1,200 degrees, which is hot enough to cause severe burns. They are also a poking hazard; therefore, keep children from running while using them. Only a sober adult should ignite fireworks.
• After the fireworks display, spent fireworks should be wet down and placed in a metal container with a lid. Place the container at least 15 feet away from any building or structure so that it may cool overnight. Re-check the container regularly to ensure nothing is smoldering, then properly dispose of the wet materials.
• Children should never pick up fireworks that may be left over, as they may still be active.

Remember, the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public display conducted by trained professionals. The Loudoun County Fire Marshal’s Office has posted a schedule of public fireworks displays in Loudoun, plus a comprehensive list of legal consumer fireworks and permitted retail sales locations - please click here.