🎆 Now Open for the 2026 Season — 1607 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso · Open Daily 9am–9pm
Fireworks Safety
Guide
Fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition — and they're safe when handled responsibly. Follow these guidelines every time, no exceptions.
6 Rules You Must Follow
These aren't suggestions — they're the difference between a great show and a trip to the emergency room.
Always Have Adult Supervision
Never allow children to handle or ignite fireworks. An adult should be in charge at all times — including sparklers, which burn at over 1,200°F and cause more injuries than any other consumer firework.
Choose a Safe Launch Area
Use a flat, open outdoor area away from houses, trees, dry grass, and vehicles. Keep spectators at least 35 feet back from the launch site. Never fire fireworks in a confined space or toward people.
Have Water Ready
Keep a bucket of water and a garden hose nearby at all times. Soak used fireworks in water for at least 20 minutes before placing them in a trash can. Never put hot or smoldering fireworks in a trash bag.
Read All Instructions First
Read the label on every firework before lighting it. Follow all manufacturer instructions exactly. Never modify, alter, or combine fireworks. Never attempt to re-ignite a dud — wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water.
Light One at a Time
Light one firework at a time and move away quickly. Never hold a lit firework in your hand. Never lean over a firework when lighting it. Use a long-handled lighter or punk (slow-burning stick) to maintain distance.
Keep Spectators Safe
Designate a clear spectator area well away from the launch zone. Never aim or throw fireworks at people, animals, or vehicles. Keep pets indoors — fireworks are extremely stressful and dangerous for animals.
What Does "Safe & Sane" Mean?
A label you'll see on some of our products
Safe & Sane is an industry designation for consumer fireworks that are considered lower-risk because they produce no aerial projectiles and stay on the ground. You'll see this label on many of our novelties, sparklers, ground spinners, smoke items, and some fountains.
They're a great choice for younger kids, smaller yards, or anyone who wants to participate without the big aerial effects.
No aerial projectiles
Stays on the ground — no launch tube needed
Lower burn temperature
Safer for supervised use with children
Shorter fuse
Designed for easy, predictable lighting
Still requires supervision
Safe & Sane does not mean unsupervised
Do's & Don'ts
Always Do
- Read all labels and instructions before lighting
- Use fireworks outdoors only, in open areas
- Keep spectators at least 35 feet back
- Have a bucket of water and hose nearby
- Light one firework at a time
- Use a long lighter or punk to ignite
- Move away quickly after lighting
- Soak used fireworks in water before disposal
- Store unused fireworks in a cool, dry place
- Keep children away from all fireworks
Never Do
- Never allow children to handle fireworks
- Never hold a lit firework in your hand
- Never point or throw fireworks at people
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket
- Never shoot fireworks from metal or glass containers
- Never try to re-light a dud firework
- Never use fireworks while impaired
- Never use fireworks near dry grass or brush
- Never modify or combine fireworks
- Never use indoors or in a vehicle
Sparklers Are Not Toys
Sparklers burn at over 1,200°F — hot enough to melt gold and cause third-degree burns instantly. They account for the highest number of fireworks injuries each year, especially in children under 5. Never hand a sparkler to a young child. Always supervise, always wear closed-toe shoes, and always have water nearby.
First Aid Guide
If an injury occurs, stay calm and act quickly. Call 911 for any serious injury.
Eye Injuries
- 1.Do NOT rub the eye
- 2.Do NOT rinse the eye with water
- 3.Cover loosely with a clean cloth
- 4.Seek emergency medical care immediately
Burns
- 1.Cool the burn under cool (not cold) running water for 10–20 minutes
- 2.Do NOT apply ice, butter, or ointments
- 3.Cover loosely with a sterile bandage
- 4.Seek medical attention for serious burns
Hand / Finger Injuries
- 1.Apply firm pressure to stop bleeding
- 2.Elevate the hand above heart level
- 3.Do NOT remove embedded objects
- 4.Call 911 or go to the ER immediately
In Case of Emergency
For any serious fireworks injury — call 911 immediately. Do not drive yourself to the hospital if you have a hand or eye injury.
Call 911Storage & Transport
Storing Fireworks Safely
- Store in a cool, dry place away from heat sources
- Keep in original packaging until ready to use
- Store away from flammable materials
- Keep out of reach of children at all times
- Never store near gasoline, propane, or other fuels
- Do not store large quantities — buy what you need
Transporting Fireworks
- Transport in the trunk or truck bed, not the passenger cabin
- Keep away from heat and direct sunlight
- Do not smoke in a vehicle carrying fireworks
- Secure packages so they cannot shift or tip
- Never transport fireworks that have been opened or damaged
- Check local laws — some counties restrict transport quantities
Have a Safe &
Spectacular Show.
Our team is happy to answer any safety questions in-store. Come see us at 1607 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN.