AMERICANS gearing up to celebrate Independence Day with their own fireworks display have been issued a vital warning.
With just days to go, families and friends across the nation will be buying up supplies to make sure their celebrations go off without a hitch.
However, with fireworks being a popular buy for the Forth of July, Border Control has sent out an important reminder.
It urges consumers to be cautious about what type of fireworks they purchase with safety being a top priority.
“Nearly $100m in legitimate fireworks comes into the U.S. annually,” the force said on X.
“They must adhere to a range of federal regulations covering customs duties, consumer product safety standards, and regulations on the transport of hazardous materials.
“This Independence Day, avoid illegally imported fireworks.”
“CBP reminds you to be safe when celebrating with fireworks,” it added in a picture featuring the American flag.
For individuals planning to celebrate with fireworks, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) recommends verifying state and local laws and regulations before making any purchases.
The ATF warns that often “illegal explosive devices” are incorrectly labelled or missold as fireworks.
These types of products do not follow regulations and can “unintentionally explode” due to “friction, heat, or impact,” the bureau warns.
The ATF emphasized that violations such as the unlawful production, sale, transfer, receipt, or transport of explosive devices could lead to federal charges of felony or misdemeanor.”
UP TO CODE
Legitimate consumer fireworks can be identified by their clearly marked packaging and detailed safe-use instructions.
All legitimate manufacturers will have an ATF manufacturer’s license and will be classified as UN0336 or UN0337 under the Department of Transport.
All legal fireworks that are designed for consumers will have these codes on the packaging.
Any firework product you buy must only be labeled for consumer use, not professional.
ATF July 4 Firework Safety Advice
ATF would like to remind the public that illegal or improperly used fireworks can cause severe injuries or even death. ATF recommends the following safety practices when using consumer fireworks:
- Always read and follow the directions on the label.
- Store fireworks in a cool, dry place not accessible to children and avoid rough handling.
- Always have an adult present when handling fireworks and never give fireworks to young children, even sparklers.
- Light one firework at a time, then move to a safe distance – keep spectators a safe distance away from fireworks.
- Only light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from anything that might catch fire.
- Keep water handy. Douse fireworks that fizzle with water. Soak leftover items with water.
- Never stand over fireworks while lighting. Don’t relight or stand over malfunctioning fireworks.
- Never light fireworks in bottles or cans, or use them in ways they are not intended.
- Never cut or take apart fireworks, and never add ingredients to fireworks.
- Always wear safety glasses when igniting fireworks.
- Never use fireworks in a manner that they were not intended or designed to be used.
Source: ATF
The ATF categorizes consumer fireworks as “ground devices containing less than 50 milligrams of flash powder, and aerial devices containing less than 130 milligrams of flash powder.”
Last year there were 11 firework-related deaths from misuse and malfunctions and 14,700 reported injuries plus around 1,700 emergency room visits as a result of incidents with sparklers, as per the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Compared to 2023, deaths increased by 38% and injuries by 52% making it even more important that people heed the warnings from officials.
“Mishandling fireworks can turn celebration into tragedy,” the CPSC said.
“Behind these numbers are real people, real families — and often, preventable incidents,” CPSC Acting Chairman Peter Feldman added.
“Fireworks injuries don’t just happen on the Fourth of July.
“We urge everyone to celebrate responsibly — because safety must always come first.”
The public can report the use or sale of illegal fireworks or explosive devices by calling the toll-free ATF hotline at 1-888-ATF-BOMB (1-888-283-2662).
