Firework Safety: A Professional Reminder for a Public Celebration

As July 4th approaches, fireworks will be a huge part of celebrations across the country. While consumer fireworks are different from professional blasting operations, the core principles of safety, planning, and respect for energetic materials remains the same.

ISEE is using the final week of National Safety Month to recognize Firework Safety month, to reinforce safe practices and encourage our members to lead by example in their communities. These safety guidelines, shared from the American Pyrotechnics Safety and Education Foundation (APSEF), are critical for keeping people safe during the holiday:

• Know and follow your local and state laws regarding firework use.
• Purchase only legal, consumer-grade fireworks from licensed sellers.
• Carefully read and follow all instructions before lighting any fireworks.
• Use fireworks in a wide, clear, open area away from structures, vehicles, and vegetation.
• Designate a responsible, sober adult to handle all firework activity.
• Keep all children at a safe distance, and never allow them to handle fireworks.
• Maintain a safe distance for all spectators.
• Have a bucket of water, hose, or fire extinguisher ready in case of fire.
• Soak used fireworks in water before discarding them in a metal trash container.
• Keep pets indoors to prevent stress or injury.
• Avoid using fireworks near wildlife habitats or in windy conditions.
• Never attempt to modify or create your own fireworks.

Small fun gatherings and events deserve the same level of respect and preparedness.

This Independence Day, we encourage all ISEE members to model safe practices and help ensure their communities celebrate responsibly.

Clear planning, informed handling, and responsible execution, that’s how we keep people safe, no matter the scale of the shot.