With July 4 coming this Friday, the Office of the Fire Marshal would like to remind everyone of the importance of fireworks safety.
Many people watch fireworks displays on or around the Fourth of July, an American tradition. However, it is important to remember that all fireworks, even sparklers, pose dangers. The safest way to watch fireworks is to attend a public display conducted at a state-approved site by Connecticut licensed pyro-technicians.
At least eight people died, and an estimated 9,700 were injured in incidents involving fireworks in 2023. Teenagers between the ages of 15 to 19 had the highest estimated rate of emergency room-treated, fireworks-related injuries, with children between 5 to 9 years old having the second highest rate.
Here is a summary of Connecticut’s Fireworks Laws and safety tips regarding the use of fireworks:
- All fireworks are illegal in the State of Connecticut, with the exception of sparklers and fountains. Only sparklers and “shower” type fireworks are legal to sell and use in Connecticut. No aerial or exploding type fireworks are permitted to be sold or used in the state.
- Only people 16 years of age and older may legally use sparklers and fountains in the State of Connecticut.
- Never allow children under 16 years of age to play with or ignite fireworks. It is illegal.
- Although sparklers are legal in the State of Connecticut, they are extremely dangerous. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2000° F, hot enough to melt some metals
- Novelty items such as party poppers, snakes, smoke devices and anything that emits a flame are not legal for private use in Connecticut.
- Always keep fireworks at least 30 feet away from spectators and structures and strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Make sure you are in a clear, open area with no dried vegetation or other combustibles that can easily ignite.
- Never ignite fireworks while holding them — always have a level, stable surface to set them on.
- Do not lean over a display when igniting.
- Always have a garden hose or bucket of water available.
- If a display fails to discharge (a dud), NEVER look into it or pick it up — let it sit and then dunk it in a pail of water.
- Don’t throw used fireworks directly in the trash — keep them in a separate noncombustible container for at least 24 hours or soak them in a bucket of water to make sure there are no hot embers.
Be mindful of neighbors and their safety. Most pets are terrified of fireworks so take necessary precautions to keep them safe.
The State of Connecticut website has an informative safety video about fire work displays. Connecticut Public posted a list of fireworks displays in Connecticut.
For additional information on fireworks laws and fireworks safety you can visit the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission post about fireworks safety.
If you are involved in an incident with fireworks and are either injured or concerned about fire, you should immediately call 911. Your safety is our number one priority. Any complaints or concerns regarding fireworks can be made by calling the Easton Police Department at 203-268-4111.
Let’s all have a safe and fun Fourth of July!
