Can You Set Off Fireworks in Arizona?

Let's Play It Safe on the Holiday Weekend

Until July 6, there are certain types of fireworks that can be sold and used by Arizona residents. But even those that are permitted can be dangerous and cause injuries or fires. So, it's important to be cautious in using them, according to fire officials.

Here are 10 basic rules as well as safety tips from the Phoenix Fire Department:

1. Using fireworks is possible for residents only from June 24 to July 6 and Dec. 24 to Jan. 3.
2. Permitted fireworks include cylindrical and cone fountains, illuminating torches, wheels, ground spinners, flitter sparklers and ground sparkling devices. The law doesn't apply to snappers, snap caps, glow worms, snakes, party poppers or toy smoke devices. Only those 16 or older can buy these devices. Some cities in Arizona have totally banned any of these devices this year; check on local rules if you're unsure about using permitted fireworks.
3. Among fireworks that are not permitted by state law are anything that shoots off the ground like skyrockets, bottle rockets, firecrackers and aerials.
4. According to the Phoenix Fire Department more than half of the injuries suffered while using fireworks include hands and fingers, eyes, heads, faces and ears and more than half were burns.
5. Young children should not be allowed to play with fireworks under any circumstances.
6. Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies during your festivities. Keep a hose with a shut-off nozzle nearby, too.
7. Light fireworks in a clear area outdoors – away from houses, dry leaves or grass and flammable materials. With the abundant vegetation in Arizona caused by winter and spring rains, it's important to be more careful than ever about starting brush fires.
8. Never relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Douse them with water and throw them away.
9. Make sure people are out of range before lighting fireworks and never have any part of your body directly over a device while lighting. Wear protective eyewear as well.
10. Sparklers should only be handled by children older than 12. Make sure those holding sparklers stay 10 feet apart. Put all used sparklers in a water bucket.

Keep these rules in mind and supervise your children carefully during this festive holiday season.

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