Celebrating America’s 250th Safely

As Independence Day celebrations approach, local fire officials are reminding residents that a few simple precautions can keep backyard fireworks displays festive rather than dangerous.

Fireworks send thousands of people to emergency rooms across the country each summer, with the weeks surrounding the Fourth of July accounting for the largest share of injuries. Burns to the hands, face and eyes are the most common, and many of those injuries involve children and bystanders rather than the person lighting the fuse.

Know the Law

In South Carolina, consumer fireworks are legal to purchase and use for anyone 16 and older. State law does prohibit certain devices, including small bottle rockets and oversized salutes such as M-80s and cherry bombs. Residents should also know that counties, cities and homeowners associations can set stricter rules. Several local governments limit the hours when fireworks may be discharged, and the state can ban fireworks altogether during drought or high fire-risk conditions. Checking local ordinances before lighting anything helps families avoid fines and stay good neighbors.

Before the Show

Safety experts, including the South Carolina Fire Marshal and the National Council on Fireworks Safety, recommend the following steps for anyone planning to set off fireworks at home.

Read the label. Cautionary labels and performance descriptions explain how each device works, and knowing what to expect before lighting reduces surprises.

Keep an adult in charge. A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activity. Sparklers, often handed to small children, burn at temperatures hot enough to cause serious burns and ignite clothing, so even those should be used with care.

Skip the alcohol. Fireworks and alcohol do not mix. Officials recommend saving any celebrating that involves drinking for after the show is over.

During the Show

Light one at a time. Set off a single device, then step back quickly. Never lean over fireworks while lighting them, and never try to relight a device that fails to go off. A dud should be soaked in water before being thrown away.

Choose an open space. Fireworks should be set off outdoors, well away from homes, dry grass, vehicles and anything flammable. A garden hose or bucket of water should be kept within reach in case of fire.

Protect pets and bystanders. Spectators should stand at a safe distance. Pets, who are easily frightened by the noise, are safest indoors during a display.

After the Show

Spent fireworks can stay hot long after the show ends. Soaking used devices in water before disposal prevents trash fires.

Leave It to the Professionals

Residents who would rather not handle fireworks themselves have plenty of options. Communities across the Upstate host public fireworks displays around the holiday, offering a safe way to enjoy the tradition without the risk.

Anyone with questions about local rules can contact their city or county offices or their local fire department for guidance.