Are Sparklers and Fireworks Safe in Arizona?

By The Husband and Wife Law Team on June 29, 2018

The Fourth of July is right around the corner, and millions of people will be purchasing and using sparklers and fireworks. Across the U.S., following sparkler and firework safety precautions is a top priority in order to avoid burn injuries. In Arizona, it’s also important to be cautious of the extremely dry and hot weather so you don’t cause a fire. Every year, dozens and even hundreds of fires are started across the state because of improper firework use.

Here are some tips to keep yourself, your family, your pets, and your property safe:

• Know what’s legal and illegal in Arizona. If it launches or explodes off the ground, it’s most likely illegal to use in Arizona. Here’s a good chart to show you exactly what you can and can’t use.
• Never light fireworks of any kind, even sparklers, in proximity to dry grass or brush that could catch fire.
• Don’t alter, disassemble, or try to build your own fireworks. This can be extremely dangerous and even deadly if the device catches fire or explodes.
• Light one firecracker at a time and make sure it is completely finished before approaching. Keep a hose and a fire extinguisher on hand in case you need them.
• Never let children play with fireworks. They can use poppers and sparklers under close adult supervision only.
• Cordon off the area where you plan to use fireworks, such as a parking lot or driveway away from dry brush and grass. Make sure no cars, pedestrians, or pets enter the area while in use.
• Keep pets inside, in beds or crates, and play soothing music at a high volume so they can’t hear the fireworks. If your pet has trouble with fireworks and loud sounds, talk to your vet about possible sedation. Never bring pets around fireworks as they could become scared and bite someone.
• Avoid high-traffic areas. If something does go wrong and a fire breaks out, have an escape route planned out and call 911 immediately. You don’t want to be stuck in traffic trying to leave a park where many people are setting off fireworks.

There are many injuries that can occur from firework use, including burns, lost fingers, eye injuries, skin abrasions, smoke inhalation, impact injury from being hit by a firework, and more. Please follow these safety tips, only purchase legal fireworks, and have a happy and safe Fourth of July!