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Wondering how to securely store fireworks after a festive celebration? Although fireworks come with some risks, they can be safely stored in your home with proper precautions. Knowing the correct way to store unused fireworks is crucial for ensuring safety. Here's our comprehensive guide on storing fireworks.
Storage Steps
Utilize Plastic Containers with Secure Lids
Plastic containers offer sturdy and reliable storage solutions. They are cost-effective and easy to seal, providing long-term security for your fireworks. Using a lid adds an extra layer of protection. Alternatively, a plastic tote bag can serve as a temporary storage option.
Secure Your Fireworks with a Lock and Clear Labeling
To prevent unauthorized access, ensure your fireworks are locked away. Consider using a plastic storage container with a lock for added security. If locking isn't feasible, prominently label the container to indicate its contents and the need for caution.
Avoid Excessive Heat Exposure
Prevent potential ignition by storing fireworks in a cool environment. High temperatures exceeding 130 °F (54 °C) can pose a fire risk. Avoid storing fireworks in hot areas like cars, attics, or garages prone to extreme heat. Opt instead for cooler locations such as basements.
Choose a Low-Humidity Storage Area
Guard Against High Humidity
Avoid Exposure to Flames and Water
Prevent Fire and Water Damage
Keep Them Away from Electronic Devices
Minimize Risks Near Appliances
Keep fireworks out of children's reach.
Children should not handle fireworks due to safety risks. More than a third of fireworks-related injuries involve children. Ensure safety by storing fireworks in high or locked areas to prevent access by children.
- Use this as an opportunity to discuss fire safety with your children.
Minimize movement of fireworks.
Limit handling to preserve firework integrity. Excessive movement may cause damage, leading to malfunction. Once placed in a suitable location, avoid unnecessary relocation.
Dispose of unwanted fireworks properly.
Consider disposing of fireworks after celebrations, as recommended by many fire departments. Since fireworks always carry some risk, responsible disposal can safeguard your property and family. To dispose of fireworks, submerge them in water for at least 15 minutes, wrap them in plastic, then discard them in the trash.
- If your fireworks came in a brown paper bag, it’s best to dispose of them. These fireworks are intended for professional use, not households.
Limit fireworks storage to a few years.
Dispose of old, unused fireworks. While properly stored fireworks can last for years, it’s advisable to use or discard them within a couple of years. Storing fireworks for too long can compromise the stability of the gunpowder, affecting their ignition.
Check local regulations regarding fireworks.
Local laws may restrict fireworks storage. Many U.S. communities have regulations on storing and using fireworks, possibly prohibiting storage after specific holidays like the 4th of July. Verify local laws to ensure compliance.
- While it can be inconvenient to reorder fireworks for each celebration, remember that household use of fireworks was illegal in much of the country until relatively recently.
Recommendations
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While it might seem convenient to store fireworks in a storage facility, this is typically prohibited in most areas. Storing fireworks in such facilities poses a significant risk to the property of others.
