4th of July Safety Tips – Your Ultimate Guide

The 4th of July is one of the busiest holidays of the year for firefighters and EMTs. A few simple precautions go a long way toward keeping your Independence Day fun instead of stressful. Here's a practical guide to celebrating safely with your family, kids, and pets.

Before You Buy

Check your city and county laws before purchasing fireworks. Rules on what's legal, and where you can set them off, vary widely from one area to the next and change from year to year
Only purchase fireworks from reputable, licensed vendors
Don't use expired or old fireworks
Don't store fireworks in a hot car, as heat can cause them to ignite
Never try to make or alter fireworks yourself

Lighting Fireworks Safely

Light fireworks with a long-handled lighter, never a match held close to the fuse
Never hold a lit firework in your hand
Nail mortar tubes to a board to prevent tipping
Stand a good distance back from any lit firework
Never light fireworks in grass, brush, or near forested areas
Skip the alcohol until after the fireworks are done for the night
Wear closed-toe shoes and safety goggles when handling or lighting fireworks
Even sparklers burn hot enough to injure a child; supervise closely and consider gloves for kids handling them

Staying Safe Around Others

Don't throw fireworks at people, cars, or animals
Keep your distance from anyone being careless or reckless with fireworks
Call the police if someone is directing fireworks at you or your property

Fire Prevention

Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby whenever fireworks are in use
Keep a fire extinguisher accessible at home
Even if you're not lighting fireworks yourself, be ready to handle a stray fire
Submerge spent fireworks in water before putting them in the trash
Keep that trash away from your house overnight, since embers can smolder for hours

Protecting Kids and Pets

Keep animals indoors during fireworks; the noise can send them running into traffic or unfamiliar areas
An anxiety wrap or blanket can help calm pets who are sensitive to loud noises
Dress kids in reflective gear if they'll be outside after dark
Keep young children within sight and away from lit fireworks at all times