Please remember that all fireworks that explode, travel laterally, rise into the air or shoot projectiles are illegal. This includes items such as firecrackers, bottle rockets, skyrockets, and roman candles. These fireworks can only be used by licensed professionals with a permit. Even if these items are purchased legally outside of Virginia, they cannot be used here.
Fireworks that are legal to use are known as consumer fireworks. These include items such as sparklers, smoke punks, pharaohs serpents, fountains and whirligigs. These can be used without a permit and with permission of the property owner where they are being used.
If you are using fireworks please follow the following safety tips:
- Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
- Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
- A responsible adult SHOULD supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.
- Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
- Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
- Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
- Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
- Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.
- Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
- Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
And let’s not forget the safety of our pets!
- Don’t bring your pets to a fireworks display, even a small one.
- If fireworks are being used near your home, put your pet in a safe, interior room to avoid exposure to the sound.
- Make sure your pet has an identification tag, in case it runs off during a fireworks display.
- Never shoot fireworks of any kind (consumer fireworks, sparklers, fountains, etc.) near pets.
If you have any questions about fireworks please call Dinwiddie Fire & EMS at (804) 469-5388.