The 4th of July holiday is approaching and I want you to celebrate safely, because unlike the watermelon in the photo above, you can’t just buy a replacement arm or hand at King Soopers. Our friends at the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control partnered with TNT Fireworks and other fireworks retailers ( adorably calling themselves “The Fireworks Bucket Brigade”) to share tips on how to use and dispose of fireworks.
🦺 Tips for Lighting Fireworks
- Leave the big show to the pros — stick to legal fireworks.
- It’s cool if you’re enjoying a summer cocktail, just keep a designated sober adult around.
- Fellas, this one’s for us: read and follow the instructions on the packaging.
- Keep spectators at a distance and don’t aim fireworks at anyone.
- Light only one firework at a time and never approach or reignite a firework that doesn’t light the first time.
🚮 How to Dispose of Used Fireworks
- Keep a fire extinguisher nearby, along with a garden hose at the ready. Some fires cannot be extinguished with water alone.
- Smoldering fireworks left in a trash bin can start a fire. Let them sit untouched for an hour to allow them to fully stop burning before cleaning up.
- Dunk fireworks in water after use for at least 20 minutes, and overnight if possible. This also applies to fireworks that may have been lit but don’t go off.
- Fireworks are not recyclable, so put them in the trash.
Stay safe out there.
