Press Release: NFA Releases Safety Tips Ahead of Fourth of July

WASHINGTON – The National Fireworks Association (NFA), the leading trade association representing the consumer fireworks industry is releasing its annual list of safety guidelines for consumers purchasing fireworks ahead of Independence Day next week. 

“The NFA wants to wish everyone a happy and joyous Independence Day,” said Steve Houser, Secretary of the National Fireworks Association. “It’s important to remember the two best ways to stay safe is to use fireworks as directed and always have a designated shooter.”

The NFA offer these safety tips to consumers who are using fireworks this year to celebrate the Fourth of July. 

Ø Only purchase fireworks from licensed fireworks dealers.Never from someone on the street corner.

Ø Carefully read all safety instructions on the fireworks label and follow the instructions exactly.

Ø Never try to relight a dud firework. 

Ø Obey all laws including local regarding where fireworks can be legally fired.  If you’re not sure what the local ordinances are pertaining to fireworks, you can check with your nearest fire station or call the appropriate agencies with your city or county. 

Ø A responsible adult should be present at all times.  Unsupervised children should never use fireworks.

Ø Wear Safety Glasses. Safety glasses can help prevent injuries to your eyes and face, particularly when dealing with fountains and aerial fireworks. 

Ø Secure long hair back away from face.

Ø Always wear shoes when lighting fireworks.Shoes can help protect your feet from the discharge radius. And if a firework doesn’t work properly, you should never step on it.

Ø Never try to alter a product, use as directed. Fireworks are manufactured to discharge a certain way and tampering with them can cause unintended consequences and lead to potential severe bodily injury and death. 

Ø Use fireworks only outdoors and away from structures. This includes houses, cars, and plants.

Ø Only light one item at a time. Proper care should be taken to ensure other unused fireworks are not near the fuse and discharge of the one you’re trying to light.

Ø Always have a hose or bucket of water nearby. The best way to defuse a firework is water. 

Ø Never try to make homemade fireworks.

Ø Never throw or point fireworks at other people.

Ø Remember to protect your pets by putting them in a safe low noise area. 

Ø Dispose of your used fireworks in a metal trashcan with a lid.  Never place in garage or near a house. Fireworks are never meant to be saved and should not be stored in a closed structure like a house, closet or garage.  You can either light them, or dispose of them in a trash can. You can also check with your local fire department to see if they offer programs to dispose of unused or dud fireworks.

You can find additional information on NFA's safety tips by clicking here.

About NFA: The National Fireworks Associationis a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the safety of consumer fireworks. Importers, distributors, manufacturers and sellers of commercial fireworks make up the over 1200 small businesses member companies who operate in the United States.