Fireworks Safety Tips | Uncle Sam's Fireworks

Check Local Laws — Verify that consumer fireworks are legal in your city, county, and state before purchasing or igniting. Laws change; always confirm the current season's rules.
Choose a Safe Launch Site — Use a flat, open outdoor area at least 100 feet from homes, dry grass, trees, vehicles, and overhead obstructions. Avoid concrete and asphalt that can deflect shells.
Establish Safe Distance Zones — Keep spectators at least 70 feet back from the launch area for standard consumer fireworks. Larger aerial shells require 100+ feet of clearance.
Designate a Single Lighter — One responsible adult handles all ignition. That person wears eye protection and never leans over a device while lighting.
Set Up a Water Station — Have a filled bucket of water and a garden hose nearby before any fuse is lit. Use water to douse duds, cool spent casings, and extinguish accidental fires.
Keep Children Supervised — Children must remain in the spectator zone. Even sparklers reach temperatures that can cause serious burns — never leave kids unsupervised with any firework.
Read Every Label — Follow all manufacturer instructions on each product. Do not modify or combine fireworks. Light one at a time.
Never Light Under the Influence — Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. The designated lighter must be sober and fully alert throughout the show.

General Regulatory Categories

Full Consumer Fireworks Permitted — Many states allow ground-based and aerial consumer fireworks with no state-level restrictions, though local bans may apply. Examples typically include Texas, Missouri, Indiana, and Georgia.
Novelties & Sparkling Devices Only — Some states permit only ground-based sparkling devices, fountains, and novelty items — no aerial shells or rockets. Examples typically include New York, New Jersey, and Massachusetts.
All Consumer Fireworks Prohibited — A small number of states ban consumer fireworks entirely. Professional displays only. Examples typically include Delaware and New Jersey (specific product types vary).
Local Rules Override State Law — Even in permissive states, cities and counties often impose stricter bans, dry-season restrictions, or designated-use-area rules. Check your specific address with your local fire department.

What is the minimum age to purchase or use fireworks?
Most states set the minimum purchase age at 18. Even where younger ages are technically permitted by state law, we strongly recommend that only responsible adults purchase and operate consumer fireworks. Sparklers and novelty items should always be supervised by an adult when used by children.
How should I store fireworks safely before use?
Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from heat sources, open flames, and direct sunlight. Keep them in their original packaging in a locked container or high shelf out of reach of children. Never store fireworks near gasoline, solvents, or other flammable materials.
What should I do if someone is injured by a firework?
Call 911 immediately for any significant injury. For minor burns, run cool (not ice-cold) water over the affected area for 10–20 minutes. Do not apply butter, toothpaste, or ice. Cover loosely with a clean bandage. Seek medical attention for any burn larger than a palm, or any injury to the eyes or face.
Is it safe to use fireworks around pets?
Fireworks cause significant stress and fear in most pets. We strongly recommend keeping pets indoors in a quiet room during any fireworks display — yours or a neighbor's. Ensure your pet's ID tags are current in case they escape due to panic. Consult your veterinarian if your pet has severe anxiety reactions to loud sounds.
Can I use fireworks near a fire ban or drought restriction?
No. Even if fireworks are otherwise legal in your area, active burn bans or fire-weather watches prohibit their use. Violating a burn ban can result in significant fines and criminal liability — and poses serious wildfire risk to your community. Check your local fire department's website or call 511 for current restrictions before your event.
What products are considered "safe and sane" fireworks?
"Safe and sane" fireworks is a category term used in several states referring to ground-based devices that do not explode or leave the ground — fountains, sparklers, smoke devices, and novelty snappers. These are permitted in some jurisdictions that ban aerial fireworks. Ask your Uncle Sam's associate which products qualify as safe and sane in your area.