The 4th of July just isn’t complete without fireworks. But every year, someone ends up making mistakes. They might light a firework too close to the house, hold it (why do people do that?! ), set one off while not realizing there’s a frightened dog hiding under the couch. If you’re aiming for a safe, fun celebration, here are 10 firework mistakes and how to make sure you’re not “that neighbor” this year.
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Lighting Fireworks Too Close to Houses or Trees
Every year, someone thinks their small driveway, porch, or patch of grass is “fine” to light fireworks near. But all it takes is one rogue spark that lands on a dry roof or inside a bush for your firework fun to turn into a disaster. Leave fireworks for open space, for REAL open space. That means away from houses, fences, bushes, and anything that can burn.
Not Reading the Instructions
Fireworks are not just “light and run.” Some need to be anchored in the ground before lighting. Others launch higher than you might think, and some have a delayed ignition point that will have you running in the wrong direction before you even realize what’s happening. Taking a moment to read the instructions means fewer crooked launches, moments of confusion, and moments that end in you ducking for cover.
Letting Kids Light Fireworks
Even if they promise they’re responsible, even if they’re begging you, don’t let your kid light fireworks. Kids and fireworks don’t go together, no matter how well-intentioned, safe, or close to the ground you think they are. Kids can have fun with sparklers and glow sticks (while being supervised), but actual fireworks should be left to adults only.
Lighting Fireworks in Your Hand
Yes, someone always does that. No, it is never safe to do it. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Roman candle or a little fountain that you’re lighting. Holding it in your hand and lighting it quickly and easily is a really bad idea. It might be fast and easy, but sometimes things backfire. Literally. Set it down, light from a distance, and run away quickly.
Not Having Water Nearby
Fireworks and fire go together, so why don’t people keep water near? It can be a hose, a bucket, a jug, or just anything to put out a little fire before it turns into a big problem. It’s one of those “better safe than sorry” rules that is easy to do and can save your night.
Relighting a “Dud”
You light a firework and nothing happens, so you want to try again. Do not try to pick it up to light again. It could be a dud, or it could just be a slow one. People get hurt and killed every year trying to light something that decided to work at the last second. Wait it out, soak it in water, and throw it away. Safety first.
Shooting Fireworks in the Wrong Direction
Angles matter. Point a little to the left or the right, and you’re firing rockets into your neighbor’s yard, onto someone’s roof, or back at your crowd. It’s hilarious in the cartoons, but not so much in real life. Triple check that you’re aiming in the right direction before lighting anything.
Mixing Booze with Fireworks
A cold beer and some fireworks can sound like a great combination. But if the guy holding the lighter is tipsy? This is how all problems begin. Alcohol slows reflexes and clouds judgment, and before you know it, this is no longer fun. Let someone who isn’t drunk use fireworks.
Trying to Outdo Everyone Else
Someone is always trying to one-up the rest with a bigger, louder display. Someone always starts lighting five at once or stacking them together or, worst of all, just experimenting for the sake of it. Nine times out of ten, this is the moment that panic sets in, a mess is made, or a small fire is started.
Forgetting About the Pets and Babies
The booms may be fun for you, but your dog is terrified and hiding in the bathroom with shaking limbs. Your neighbor’s infant is wide-awake and crying. Fireworks are stressful for some, so it’s nice to let people know in advance, make sure your pets are inside, and keep your noise level at a reasonable decibel, at least for a part of the night.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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