After the Fireworks Fade, Safety Still Matters

COLUMBUS, Ohio - As Ohioans reflect on this past weekend's historic America 250 Fourth of July celebration, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of State Fire Marshal is calling attention to the ongoing danger that leftover fireworks can pose, especially if not handled, stored or disposed of properly.

Each year, the unsafe use or improper disposal of fireworks result in thousands of emergency room visits across the country. In addition to the personal danger posed to individuals, fireworks cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in property damage each year in Ohio. For example, from Dec. 31, 2024 to Jan. 3, 2026, there were approximately 110 fireworks-related incidents in Ohio with over $400,000 in property loss.

Ohio State Fire Marshal Kevin Reardon says fireworks don't only pose a danger when they're lit, they pose a danger even in storage. Improper storage, particularly near heat or ignition sources, can lead to unintended ignition.

"Whether you plan on disposing of unused or unspent fireworks, or storing them to be used in the future, it's important that you always treat them with care as they are explosive devices, and the wrong conditions can make them unstable and unsafe. Safety is the most important thing when it comes to fireworks before, during and even after celebrations. By taking the proper precautions, Ohioans can help ensure this special time of year isn't ruined by tragedy," Reardon said.

Safely Disposing of Leftover Fireworks

To reduce the risk of accidental ignition during disposal:

• Do not place unused or unexploded fireworks directly into a garbage can or dumpster, submerge them in a bucket of water and allow them to saturate for up to 24 hours.
• Double bag them after soaking before disposing them in your household trash outside.
• Fireworks (both used and unused) are strictly non-recyclable in Ohio.
• You may also contact your local fire or police department for guidance on disposing of unused or unspent fireworks.

Safe Storage Reminders

For those who intend on keeping leftover consumer fireworks for future celebrations, Ohio law outlines how 1.4G consumer fireworks must be kept, stored, and handled. Key safety principles include:

• Always handle fireworks carefully, remembering they are explosives, and only store fireworks in a way that does not endanger the public and per the manufacturer's instructions.
• Keep fireworks in a cool, dry location, away from heat sources, sparks, friction, open flames, and flammable liquids.
• Maintain at least 25 feet of distance from ignition hazards and 150 feet from other explosive or chemicals unless special storage permits are in place.
• Never store fireworks in sleeping areas, basements, vehicles, institutional occupancies, or outdoors in the open.
• For small quantities retained at home, only store leftover consumer fireworks in secured plastic bins in a cool, dry, dark place. Never store fireworks in your home, attic or near ignition sources.

For more safety guidance, visit the State Fire Marshal's page on fireworks resources.

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About the Division of State Fire Marshal
The Division of State Fire Marshal is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.