Delaware Allows Limited Possession of Fireworks

With the July 4th, right around the corner Indian River would like to provide the public with some information about Fireworks Safety and the Delaware Law regarding fireworks.

Delaware legislation has authorized the possession and use of fireworks. Listed below is a synopsis of the law and then the actual revised written code for fireworks within Delaware.

Everyone is encouraged to be cognizant of fireworks safety practices and abide by the recommendations.

Synopsis:

State law now allows for possession of sparklers and other ground-based pyrotechnics 30 days prior to July 4th and December 31st. Use of these fireworks are only permitted during July 4th and December 31st. Must be 18 to possess and use.

Ground fireworks are small fireworks that typically don't leave the ground and don't produce an effect that travels over 15 feet from the ground. Most common types are fountains, novelties and smoke items.

A sparkler is a stick that is coated is pyrotechnic powder that emits sparks as it burns down the stick. Often on a wood or wire stick. They burn at over 2,000 degrees and can cause severe burns if mishandled.

http://delcode.delaware.gov/title16/c069/index.shtml

Any further questions regarding the possession or use of fireworks can be directed to the Delaware State Fire Marshal’s Office.

Additional information may be obtained by viewing the following:

(1)  WBOC TV http://www.wboc.com/story/38505299/delaware-makes-fireworks-illegal

Now that consumer fireworks are legal to acquire in Delaware and you choose to use them, be sure to follow the following safety tips:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks

• Older children should use them only under close adult supervision

• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol

• Anyone using fireworks or standing nearby should wear protective eyewear

• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands

• Never light them indoors

• Only use them away from people, houses and flammable material

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person

• Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting

• Never ignite devices in a container

• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks

• Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding

• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire

• Never use illegal fireworks

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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.