How to use fireworks safely and legally this Fourth of July

Independence Day is nearly here, hot dogs are being prepped, and people are sporting their best red, white, and blue. In addition to the annual parades, marching bands, and afternoon barbecues , many people will be stopping by the red-and-white-striped fireworks tents set up outside the Walmarts and roadside turnoffs of the United States.

Under these circus-like canopies, vendors can sell anything from sparklers and ground spinners to bottle rockets and spark-spraying fountains — all available for purchase by eager, patriotic Americans.

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In 2023, around 9,700 people were hospitalized for fireworks-related accidents, and eight people died. These pyrotechnic amateurs have lost fingers, eyes, and even limbs because they did not take the proper precautions. Knowing and following the right safety measures can ensure your ability to raise the flag on July 5 with all your fingers intact.

Keep it outside. Always

While it seems like common sense to only light fireworks outdoors, every year, someone turns their kitchen or garage into a blast zone. Just last week, a set of 11-year-old twins from River Rouge, Michigan, set off a string of fireworks in their home. Keeping fireworks outside, away from leaves, brush, or other flammable materials can guarantee all explosions are directed toward the sky, where they belong.

Take a big step back... or 30

The Department of Homeland Security recommends a minimum distance of 35 feet for spectators watching grounded fireworks, such as fountains. For larger, aerial rockets, 150 feet or more is recommended. At these positions, everyone will be clear from the blast zone and able to duck or move effectively if the fireworks discharge in the wrong direction.

Have a bucket of water on standby

When handling any type of explosive, even fireworks, it is essential to keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby. If chaos ensues and a patch of lawn catches fire, being able to put out the blaze quickly and effectively can make all the difference.

Don't relight a dud

Although tempting to relight fireworks if they don't go off right away, the safest move is to restart with a fresh fuse. If the fireworks do not light the first time, they likely have a malfunction, which greatly increases the chances of a misfire. Trying to relight defective fireworks could create a crater in your lawn rather than a colorful display in the sky.

Supervise children with sparklers

After dark, children across the country celebrate the holiday by etching designs into the air with a crackling sparkler. While seemingly harmless, sparklers can actually reach temperatures of 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and can leave harsh burns. Make sure children using sparklers are supervised for their safety, and do not allow them to play with larger, explosive fireworks.

Dispose of old fireworks to prevent an accidental explosion

If you find a crate of fireworks from years ago while searching through the garage, it is recommended that you refrain from lighting them and dispose of them properly. While they do not typically expire if kept in cold, dry storage, fireworks older than eight years have a much higher chance of misfiring than those purchased recently. The best way to dispose of old fireworks is to soak them in a bucket of water for a few hours.

Keep it legal

Different states have different laws about which type of fireworks can be used if any at all. The majority of states, mostly in the Midwest, allow a wide range of consumer fireworks. Other states have "safe and sane" laws, which limit the products consumers can purchase, allowing only grounded fireworks such as fountains or sparklers. All aerial or explosive fireworks have been banned in these states and Washington, D.C.:

Arizona California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Idaho Illinois Maryland (aside from certain counties) Minnesota New Jersey New York North Carolina Oregon Rhode Island Vermont Virginia Wisconsin

Massachusetts remains the only state to have banned all commercial fireworks. Residents of the Bay State can still enjoy professional town displays, but those caught sneaking up to New Hampshire and buying their own could be subject to a fine and confiscation.

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Do not consume alcohol when lighting fireworks

Best practice when playing with fireworks is to hold off on consuming alcohol until after the festivities have concluded. This will help avoid careless accidents and keep you ready to put out any literal or figurative fires.

The Fourth of July should be an exciting celebration spent in the comfort of friends, family, and, hopefully, all 10 fingers. If you are going to shoot off fireworks, keep these tips for a safe celebration in mind.