June is National Fireworks Safety Month
Each year, around this time, healthcare practitioners and public safety officials warn
consumers about the dangers of fireworks that can result in injury, death, and destruction of
property. They emphasize the best and safe way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a professional
fireworks show, yet, each year, thousands of fireworks-related injuries occur.
Chief Tim Keen, of the Prince William County Fire and Rescue System states, “Should you
choose to purchase fireworks, we recommend purchasing from a fireworks stand that has
been inspected and approved by the Fire Marshal’s Office. All stands in Prince William County
are properly permitted to sell fireworks displayed.”
June is National Fireworks Safety Month and continues through the fourth of July. (June 1 –
July 4th). To assist residents in preparation for the Fourth of July holiday, and additional
festivities held throughout the summer, the Fire Marshal’s Office suggests the following safety
tips:
• Fireworks should only be ignited by an adult.
• Fireworks should only be used outdoors in an open space clear of spectators,
buildings, vehicles, debris, and flammable materials or on a driveway, sidewalk or
other fire-resistant surface. Remember, fires are caused by careless handling of
fireworks in areas exposed to sparks or live fireworks.
• Keep spectators a safe distance away from permissible fireworks at a minimum of 25
feet for ground items.
• NEVER ignite fireworks during high winds where flying sparks can start a fire.
• Keep a bucket of water handy in case sparks start a fire.
• Be sure children around fireworks know to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches
on fire.
• Deposit sparklers in a metal container as they may be stepped on while hot or lost in
the grass and stepped on while playing.
• DO NOT place used fireworks in combustible trash cans or bags.
• NEVER aim or throw fireworks at another person.
• NEVER try to re-ignite fireworks that malfunction or fail to go off.
• DO NOT wear loose clothing when using fireworks.
• NEVER experiment or make your own fireworks.
• NEVER carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Pets may be frightened by the noise and lights of fireworks; keep pets inside or away
from the area when in use.
These are just a few tips to keep you, your loved ones, and your property safe when fireworks
are in use. Although the County permits the use of some fireworks, restrictions are applied
for good reason. To view the list of 2022 permissible fireworks, visit the Fire Marshal’s Office
website at pwcva.gov/department/fire-marshals-office and click on Fireworks.
Illegal Fireworks
Illegal Fireworks in Prince William County without approved permits are defined as:
“Fireworks” means any firecracker, torpedo, skyrocket, or other substance or object, of
whatever form or construction, that contains any explosive or inflammable compound or
substance, and is intended, or commonly known as fireworks, and which explodes, rises into
the air or travels laterally, or fires projectiles into the air.
If you are in possession of illegal fireworks, please contact the Prince William County Fire
Marshal’s Office for disposal at 703-792-6360. DO NOT throw them in the garbage!
Turning in illegal fireworks will not result in any fines or summons, and no questions will be
asked.
No matter how breathtaking fireworks are or how easy they appear to use, they are potential
fire starters. Why don’t you leave fireworks to the professionals by enjoying one of the many
larger aerial fireworks shows in the District, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) area by visiting your
local news and/or entertainment outlets for scheduled listings.
For more information on fireworks safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association
www.nfpa.org, the National Safety Council, and the Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC).
