Department of Fire and Rescue

For Release

July 2, 2019

Rarely do we consider fireworks harmful much less deadly; yet, fireworks are one of the biggest fire dangers to life and property.  According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there are more reported fires on the 4th of July than on any other day of the year and 2 out of every 5 fires reported are fireworks-related. 

Annually, thousands of fireworks-related injuries are treated in hospital emergency departments throughout the United States.  Although Prince William County permits the use of some fireworks, restrictions apply and for good reason.  No matter how breathtaking fireworks are or how easy they appear to use, they are potential fire starters. Acting System Chief Tim Keen, of the Prince William County Fire and Rescue System, encourages residents to leave fireworks demonstrations to trained professionals by enjoying one of the many larger aerial fireworks shows in the District, Maryland and Virginia (DMV) area by visiting https://www.nbcwashington.com/entertainment/the-scene/Your-DC-Area-Fourth-of-July-Fireworks-Finder-2019-Edition-510762651.html and https://www.visitpwc.com/search/?q=July%204&type=events.  However, should you choose to purchase fireworks, Chief Keen recommends purchasing from a fireworks stand that has been inspected and approved by the Fire Marshal's Office. All stands in Prince William County are properly permitted to sell fireworks displayed. To view the list of 2019 permissible fireworks and approved fireworks stands, visit Permissible-Fireworks. 

To assist residents in preparation for the Fourth of July and additional festivities held throughout the summer, the Fire Marshal's Office suggests the following safety tips:  

• Fireworks should only be ignited by an adult.
• Fireworks should only be used outdoors in an open space clear of spectators, buildings, vehicles, debris and flammable materials or on a driveway, sidewalk or other
  fire-resistant surface.  Remember, fires are caused by careless handling of fireworks in areas exposed to sparks or live fireworks. 
• Keep spectators a safe distance away from permissible fireworks at a minimum of 25 feet for ground items.
• Keep a bucket of water handy in case sparks start a fire. 
• Be sure children around fireworks know to stop, drop and roll if their clothing catches on fire. 
• Deposit sparklers in a metal container as they may be stepped on while hot or lost in the grass and stepped on while playing.
• DO NOT place used fireworks in combustible trash cans or bags.
• NEVER aim or throw fireworks at another person.
• NEVER try to re-ignite fireworks that malfunction or fail to go off. 
• DO NOT wear loose clothing when using fireworks.
• NEVER experiment or make your own fireworks.
• NEVER carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Pets may be frightened by the noise and lights of fireworks; keep pets inside or away from the area when in use.  

Illegal Fireworks 

Illegal Fireworks in Prince William County without approved permits is defined as: 

"Fireworks" means any firecracker, torpedo, skyrocket, or other substance or object, of whatever form or construction, that contains any explosive or inflammable compound or substance, and is intended, or commonly known as fireworks, and which explodes, rises into the air or travels laterally, or fires projectiles into the air. 

If you are in possession of illegal fireworks, please contact the Prince William County Fire Marshal's Office for disposal at 703-792-6360. DO NOT throw them in the garbage!  Turning in illegal fireworks will not result in any fines or summons, and no questions will be asked.   

For more information on fireworks safety, visit the National Fire Protection Association www.nfpa.org, the National Council on Fireworks Safety www.nsc.org, and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) www.cpsc.gov.