While California law allows the sale and use fireworks with the "safe and sane" designation, your city or county might ban them. Check with your city or county’s website to ensure use of fireworks is legal.
Additionally, California has a zero tolerance for the sale and use of illegal fireworks. Illegal fireworks include:
- Skyrockets
- Bottle rockets
- Roman candles
- Aerial shells
- Firecrackers
- Other fireworks that explode, go into the air, or move on the ground in an uncontrollable manner
It is illegal to sell, transport, or use fireworks that do not carry the “Safe and Sane” seal, as well as possess or use fireworks in a community where they’re not permitted.
In 2023, California had 200 nonfatal hospitalizations and 718 emergency department visits for injuries attributed to fireworks. Handling fireworks responsibly prevents injuries, fires and other dangerous situations.
Before you light fireworks
- Read all instructions.
- Don’t use damaged or expired fireworks.
- Choose a safe location.
- Use a flat open outdoor area away from buildings, trees, dry grass and power lines.
- Keep spectators at a safe distance (30-50 ft).
- Prep a safety zone.
When lighting fireworks- Use one at a time.
- Never light more than one firework at a time.
- Use long lighters.
- A long-handled lighter keeps your hands at a safer distance.
- Stay sober.
- Never handle fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Keep body parts away.
- Never hold fireworks in your hand once lit.
- Avoid aiming or throwing fireworks toward people, homes or pets.
What to avoid
- Don’t relight a dud.
- If it doesn’t go off, wait 20 minutes, soak it in water, then dispose of it.
- Don’t modify fireworks.
- Homemade or altered fireworks are illegal and extremely dangerous.
- Don’t carry fireworks in pockets.
- Friction or heat can cause them to ignite unexpectedly.
After the show
- Soak fireworks that were lit.
- Fully wet fireworks in a bucket of water before disposing.
- Scan the area.
- Check for any leftover fireworks or embers before leaving the site.
- Wash hands.
- Firework residue can be toxic – wash hands and face after handling.
- Do not keep any leftover fireworks.
- Discard any unlit fireworks by treating as if they had been used by soaking in water before disposing.
Keeping Your Community SafeNoise and fireworks can have an impact on veterans, neurodiverse individuals, pets, and wildlife. When celebrating, remember to be respectful of the community around you.
There are also alternatives to using fireworks at home, such as:
- Attending safe community firework shows, laser light, or drone displays.
- Participating in fire-work free backyard celebration ideas.
Preparing for 4th of July
- Some pets may experience anxiety from noisy fireworks, parties, or unfamiliar crowds. Consult with your veterinarian beforehand to discuss behavioral or medical options that may be helpful for your pet.
- Make sure your pet’s identification tag and microchip information are up to date.
Celebrating 4th of July
- Do not leave potentially anxious animals alone.
- Keep all pets inside with doors securely closed. Some pets may try to escape from a house when scared.
- Consider creating a quiet room “safe zone” where nervous animals can get away from crowds and noises. Close the door, windows, and curtains to reduce light and loud noises and provide engaging toys and treats for distraction.
- Marijuana contains tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is toxic to dogs and cats, and should not be used to calm anxious pets.
- Keep sparklers and fireworks away from curious pets.
Resources
•
American Lung Association•
CalFire•
American Veterinary Medical Association