Saturday July, 4 2026 @ 22:15

Nature: Outside Fire - Trash Fire – Rehoboth Shores

Location: Long Neck Rd and Goose Pond, 19966

On Saturday morning, July 4th, the Indian River Volunteer Fire Company was alerted for an outside fire (trash fire) incident at the Gazebo in the Rehoboth Shores develop off Long Neck Road.  It was reported to be a trash fire.

Emergency response units from Indian River included Tanker 80 from the Oak Orchard facility and Brush 80 from the Long Neck facility as well as the Delaware State Fire Police.

Emergency response crew assignments included fire suppression and saturation activities.

Upon arrival of emergency response units, the area of concern was what appeared to be a trash receptacle that caught fire.  It is probable that improperly discarded firework materials causes the incident.

All emergency response units were allowed to return to their respective quarters upon completion of their assignments.

Properly Discarding Spent Firework Materials

Spent fireworks — including “duds” — remain hot and can ignite or explode if mishandled. Always treat them as live explosives until they are fully neutralized and safe.

1. Cool and Neutralize Fireworks

• Soak immediately: Submerge spent fireworks in a bucket of water for at least 15–20 minutes, or longer (up to 30 minutes) for thick casings 

• Ensure all components — shells, fuses, and any residue — are fully covered.

• For extra safety, soak from a distance using a hose or bucket to avoid contact 

• Never soak near natural water bodies, as metal compounds can pollute the environment 

2. Double-Protect Before Disposal

• Wrap soaked fireworks in plastic bags to prevent chemical leaching and to keep them from igniting during transport 

• Place them in a sealed container or sturdy bin.

3. Avoid Unsafe Methods

• Do not attempt to relight a dud — wait at least 20 minutes, then soak 

• Do not throw live or partially burned devices into trash; never dismantle or modify fireworks 

• Keep away from children, pets, and heat sources until completely safe.