Fourth of July: Queen Creek releases 10 tips to safely handle legal fireworks

Queen Creek, Arizona (Release): The town of Queen Creek has released its annual dos and don'ts for Fourth of July firework displays. 

What fireworks are legal in Queen Creek?

Legal consumer fireworks include ground and hand-held sparkling devices; any devices that rise into the air and explode/detonate or fly above the ground are illegal (i.e. sky/bottle rockets, reloadable shell devices, aerial shells, and single-tube devices that are shot up into the air).

Can you use legal fireworks at any time of the year in Queen Creek?

State statute determines when legal consumer fireworks can be sold and used. The use of legal consumer fireworks is restricted to May 4 through May 6, June 24 through July 6, and December 24 through January 3. Illegal fireworks are never permitted within the town limits.

Can you use legal fireworks anywhere in Queen Creek?

Legal consumer fireworks are only allowed on private property, and individuals who use, discharge or ignite permissible consumer fireworks are responsible and liable for expenses as a result of any emergency response that is required.

Queen Creek Fire and Medical's 10 tips for safe use of legal fireworks

1) Adults should always supervise fireworks activities. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees and can cause serious injuries.

2) Avoid buying fireworks that come in brown paper packaging.

3) Never have any portion of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move back to a safe distance immediately after lighting.

4) Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.

5) Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

6) Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.

7) Light fireworks one at a time then move back quickly.

8) Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.

9) After fireworks fully complete their functioning, douse the spent device in a bucket of water overnight before discarding in the trash to prevent a trash fire.

10) Only use legal consumer fireworks and always leave the fireworks that rise into that air (illegal for consumer use) to the professionals.

Pets are adversely affected by fireworks, here are tips to folow if you have pets

1) Do not take your pet to firework displays.

2) Provide a safe area away from loud noises.

3) Do not place glow sticks or jewelry on your pet.

4) Have your pet properly identified with a microchip and/or ID tag in case they run away die to stress and/or anxiety due to fireworks.

5) Never use fireworks around your pet or livestock and be aware of your neighbors’ pets and livestock.

What do you do if you suspect someone is using illegal fireworks?

If you suspect illegal fireworks are being used in your neighborhood, please contact QCPD’s non-emergency number at 480-358-3500.