Fireworks Safety
Sponsoring a private fireworks display?
According to Chapter 11, Sec. 59-1-142 et seq. Article 27 of the Virginia Statewide Fire Prevention Code, the following consumer fireworks (formerly Class C fireworks) are permitted: sparklers, fountains, pharaoh's serpents, pinwheels, and whirligigs.
The following consumer fireworks are prohibited in the State of Virginia: firecrackers, torpedoes, sky rockets and other fireworks which explode, travel laterally or rise into the air, or fire projectiles into the air. (For a complete listing of other states please visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.
So that means no M-80s, M-100s, or bottle rockets among other explosives. The National Council on Fireworks Safety reports that the injury rate for fireworks-related injuries was at an all-time low in 2006 since they started tracking injuries in the 1970s, thanks in part to safety regulations and consumer awareness.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission offers the following tips from their "FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS FOR THE MILLENNIUM" brochure:
…if fireworks are legal where you live and you decide to set them off on your own, be sure to follow these important safety tips:
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
- Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
- Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
- Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.
- Keep a bucket of water handy in case of a malfunction or fire.
Little kids might join the fun with glow sticks instead of sparklers -- the sticks glow brightly for hours and will never burn fingers. To prevent minor fires, plan to be extra careful on your lawn or under your trees. Add a metal bucket for burnt fireworks, sparkler wands, and matches is helpful. Leave it outside so the works completely cool and keep it and your firework display away from your pets. Add a flashlight, some mosquito repellant, and some lemonade and it's a party. Have a great Independence Day!
