Celebrating the Fourth of July Safely

Amber RandhawaHomeowner and Homebuyer Tips

Those of us who enjoy a bombastic display of fireworks on the Fourth of July often flock to the celebrations held around the metro area. But this year, most municipalities have canceled their displays in order to comply with social distancing measures. This means more and more people will be holding their own small backyard fireworks shows, and many of us aren’t quite fireworks experts. While they are beautiful and exciting to watching, setting off fireworks can leave you seriously hurt if you aren’t careful, including causing burns and eye injuries. We have some tips for staying safe while celebrating.


Keep Fireworks Away From Children

This one is a no brainer, but it’s a good reminder that this applies to sparklers as well. Children should not be allowed to light sparklers themselves, and should be closely supervised if you choose to allow them to hold sparklers during your festivities.

Keep a Water Source Nearby

Either a water hose or large bucket of water should be kept nearby at all times while lighting fireworks. Even safely lit and well-placed fireworks can start a small grass fire, but as long as you have water closely available you’ll be able to squelch it quickly and save your lawn. You will also want to douse used fireworks with water before discarding them in the trash.

Don’t Attempt to Relight a “Dud”

Almost every fireworks display includes a few that never ignite. These duds are frustrating, but common, and you should not attempt to relight them. In some cases the firework’s explosion is simply delayed and could occur just as you are closing in on it to relight it, causing serious injuries. It’s better to let it sit for awhile, then dispose of it cautiously without additional ignition.

Don’t Drink and Detonate

Of course we realize that partaking in adult beverages is just as much a party of July 4th tradition as fireworks for many people, but you should never light fireworks when you’ve had too much to drink. It’s best to either allow a sober friend or family member to handle the lighting, or plan your fireworks display to occur separate from the main drinking part of the party.


However you choose to celebrate this Independence Day, we wish you a safe and happy Fourth of July!