Fourth of July is one of the most popular times for fireworks. While pyrotechnics may make for crowd-pleasing displays, it’s worth remembering they can be deadly explosives if not handled correctly.
According to the National Safety Council, the safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a show performed by professionals, especially shows put on by large organizations or government entities.
And if you’re pondering trying out a DIY firework display, think again. All fireworks are illegal for personal use in the state of Virginia.
“If you light it with a match, it’s not legal,” said Allan Turner, York County’s acting battalion chief in the Prevention and Community Safety Division.
Turner added that despite the fact fireworks can be purchased in various localities in the area, it is still against the law to use them.
“Just because they’re being sold, doesn’t mean they’re legal,” he said.
York Fire and Life Safety Chief Steve Kopczynski said those who are caught using personal fireworks, even on their private property, could be found in violation of statewide fire prevention code — which is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
According to the Virginia Department of Forestry, possessing, selling or using unlawful fireworks is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of $2,500. “Fireworks of any kind are NEVER allowed on federal lands,” the department warns.
Click here for a full list of firework regulations in Virginia.
Although fireworks are illegal in the commonwealth, they are permitted in other states. According to Captain Cary Middlebrook of Williamsburg Fire Department’s Community Risk Reduction program, when individuals try to operate fireworks without professional help serious injuries can occur.
“Hand and finger injuries are the most common,” he said. “These injuries range from minor to life-changing, which could ultimately affect the rest of someone’s life.”
The National Council on Firework Safety has the following guidelines for personal firework use: Before firing off any legal fireworks, be sure to read the directions and caution warnings before attempting to use them. When operating fireworks, an adult should always be present in case of emergency.
Do not drink and shoot fireworks — alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Light fireworks one at a time and immediately step back quickly after lighting them.
Remember to never aim fireworks at people, buildings, animals, or any flammable substances. Holding fireworks in your pocket or bag can cause friction that may set the firework off prematurely.
If a firework appears to be a “dud,” meaning it doesn’t fire off when you first light it, do not relight it.
Never make or fire off homemade fireworks. Always keep a bucket of water around when using fireworks. If fragments of fireworks come back to the ground, do not touch them. They may be very hot and have the potential to explode.
Pets can be very sensitive to the loud sounds of fireworks. Animals should never be brought to a firework show. If you know your house is close to a fireworks show, put any animals in an interior room away from the noise.
This year, fire departments throughout the Hampton Roads area teamed up to help promote firework safety. Several fire departments, including York County, made short PSA videos to inform the public about the dangers of fireworks. Over the past 10 years in Virginia alone, 778 fires and 650 explosions were caused by fireworks, the video states.
On Independence Day, there will be a host of professional firework displays throughout the Historic Triangle. If you are traveling out of state and plan to set off fireworks this July Fourth, remember to be safe and protect yourself and those around you.
In the words of York County Department of Fire and Life Safety, “Public firework displays are free, bigger, better, safer, and legal.”
Want to know which fireworks are legal and which aren’t?
Here’s a list courtesy of the Virginia Department of Forestry:
Permitted Consumer Fireworks: Sparklers, fountains, pharaoh’s serpents, pinwheels, and whirligigs.
Prohibited: Firecrackers, skyrockets, torpedoes, and other fireworks which explode, travel laterally, rise into the air, or fire projectiles into the air. Banned items may not be transported, stored or manufactured.
Display fireworks require a display permit: Apply to local authorities at least 15 days before display date.
Insurance: Bond adequate to pay for all damages to persons or property is required.
Operator: No license specifically required in state law.
Enforcing Authority: Virginia Department of Fire Programs, Office of State Fire Marshal
