Celebrate Responsibly: Firework Safety Tips
As temperatures rise and the days stretch longer, it’s important to stay vigilant about wildfire safety. Summer in California is complimented by pool parties, barbecues, and evenings lit up by fireworks shared with family and friends. But what begins as a joyful celebration can turn into a fiery disaster in seconds. All it takes is one stray spark drifting over a fence, landing in dry grass to ignite a wildfire that rages for days and scorches acres.
As residents of California, we all know that California is no stranger to wildfires. Every year, our state faces hotter, drier conditions that stretch wildfire season longer than ever before. And while wildfires are often associated with natural caused disasters like lightning strikes, the truth is that the vast majority are caused by human activity, including fireworks.
But fire danger doesn’t have to put a damper on summer fun. With a little awareness and preparation, you can enjoy a safe, legal, and spectacular Fourth of July, without becoming the spark that starts the next wildfire. At the California Fire Foundation, we’re here to help you celebrate Independence Day with fireworks smartly, safely, and responsibly.
To help reduce the risk of fires this season, CAL FIRE offers simple but essential firework safety tips. These include never using fireworks near dry vegetation, always having a water source nearby, and properly soaking used fireworks before disposal. It’s also critical to supervise children, never relight “dud” fireworks, and avoid alcohol when handling anything flammable.
Even “Safe and Sane” fireworks, the only fireworks permitted under California state law, can be hazardous when used in the wrong environment. That’s why it’s important to remember that local laws may be more restrictive than state rules. Some communities ban all fireworks altogether, especially in areas where dry grass, wind, and slopes create a high risk of wildfire. You may want to consider alternatives to fireworks, and there are many safe, wildfire-free options available to you and your family like glow sticks, confetti poppers, and using your pots and pans to help celebrate. Always check your city or county guidelines before purchasing or using fireworks.
And let us not forget about our furry four-legged friends who might not be as interested in our Fourth of July celebrations as much as us. Around this time of year, the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center sees a rise in calls related to pets who have ingested fireworks or are distressed by loud noises. With a little preparation, like playing calming music, creating a quiet space, or consulting your vet about anxiety treatments, you can help ensure your furry companions stay safe and stress-free during the celebrations. Always keep your pets identifiable with a secure collar and ID tag in case they are spooked and go missing.
As we enter the heart of summer, let’s commit to celebrating responsibly. Protecting our communities, our homes, and our furry friends from wildfires is a shared responsibility, and it starts with simple choices made by you.
For more information on firework safety and how to reduce your wildfire risk, visit CAL FIRE’s Fireworks Safety page, or sign up for our Newsletter.