Educating the Public About Safe Handling of Fireworks

Every year, about 10,000 people are treated for injuries in hospital emergency departments due to the mishandling of live, misfired and waste consumer fireworks¹. In addition, fires resulting from fireworks cause over $100 million in direct property damage². Many U.S. cities are seeing a surge in consumer fireworks usage by the public in 2020.

Guidance on managing fireworks

Generally, the importation, distribution and storage of fireworks defined as consumer fireworks are exempted from the provisions of the federal explosives laws. However, because they contain pyrotechnic compositions classed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as explosive materials, the manufacture of consumer fireworks requires a manufacturer’s license. In addition, pyrotechnic compositions used in the manufacture of consumer fireworks must be stored in accordance with regulations in 27 CFR Subpart K – Storage.

In July 2017, the Environmental Protection Agency issued the memorandum Safe Handling, Storage and Treatment of Waste Fireworks. This memorandum provides information regarding the safe and legal handling, storage and treatment of waste fireworks, and responds to recommendations from the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board.

Messages to share with the public

• The best way to stay safe from fireworks is to not use them. Instead, attend a public fireworks display put on by professionals.
• Fireworks are dangerous to people and pets. Using them puts your property at risk.
• Hand-held sparklers burn at 1,200 F. Remember, wood ignites at 356 F and burns at 575 F.

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