Consumer/Family Fireworks Safety List

How do I safely set up my Family Fireworks Display?

• Do not shoot fireworks under the influence of Alcohol or drugs.
• Do not smoke around fireworks
• Read all directions on each Fireworks piece before firing time, to be prepared.
• Store fireworks in a cool dry and secure place.
• Choose an area that measures at least 30 meters by 30 meters for your display.
• Keep all spectators at least 20 meters away.
• Make sure that the fire area is clear of all obstructions, such as overhead wires and trees.
• Make sure that the fire area away from buildings and dry grass.
• Keep a water hose or bucket of water close by to douse any flames.
• Check wind direction, and angle the fireworks about 10 degrees away from spectators.
• DO NOT shoot fireworks in high winds.
• Fill a wheelbarrow or bucket with sand to make a good launching base.
• Do not use glass or metal containers to fire the fireworks out of.
• Bury top fused items half their length in the sand before igniting the fuse.
• For pre-loaded mortars on a base, place them on a hard level surface such as a 2’ x 2’ patio stone.
• For cakes bank sand or dirt around the base to make the cake stable.
• Light fireworks one at a time.
• Keep your unlit fireworks away from your firing area; keep them in a closed box, or inside a garbage bag, so that any stray sparks will not accidentally light the fireworks.
• Do not let children under the age of 18 set off any fireworks item.
• Designate a specific person or person to keep a watchful eye over children
• Never attempt to re-light a firework that did not ignite the first time. If an item does not light easily, or fizzles out, do not approach the item for 15 minutes. Soak in a bucket of water overnight and dispose of it in the morning.
• All persons firing the display should always wear snug fitting Cotton clothing and a cotton baseball hat & safety glasses for protection from sparks.
• All persons in the firing area should carry a flashlight.
• Do not put fireworks in your pocket.
• Do not throw fireworks. Do not point fireworks at anyone.
• Sparklers are the ONLY item that should be held in your hand. Light sparklers one at a time. Hold them at arm’s length.
• Sparklers are for OUTDOOR USE ONLY.
• Do not purchase illegal fireworks.