Delaware State Fire Marshal Urges Fireworks Caution Ahead of America’s 250TH Anniversary

As Delaware prepares to celebrate America's historic 250th anniversary of independence, the Delaware State Fire Marshal's Office (DSFMO) reminds all residents and visitors to prioritize safety by leaving fireworks to the professionals. With unprecedented crowds and community events planned across Delaware for this milestone Semiquincentennial, state fire officials are tracking a heightened risk of preventable injuries and property damage from illegal consumer fireworks.

State Fire Marshal John W. Rudd reminds residents and visitors that the possession, sale, and use of most consumer fireworks-including firecrackers, roman candles, and bottle rockets-are illegal at all times under Delaware law. Certain fireworks, such as sparklers, ground-based displays, and a selection of other non-airborne, nonexplosive novelty items, regulated by the federal government, are allowed to be used only on July 4^th. Permitted ground-based fireworks include the following: spinners, fountains, jumping jacks, ground blooms, and handheld sparklers. These firework types can be purchased by a person 18 years of age or older only between June 4th and July 4th. Even legal novelties, such as sparklers and ground-based fountains permitted, pose severe burn risks, with sparklers burning at temperatures hot enough to melt gold. To protect families and first responders, the DSFMO is intensifying its public education and enforcement efforts throughout this historic summer.

"Delaware played a foundational role in the birth of our nation, and the best way to honor that legacy during America 250 is by keeping our communities safe," said State Fire Marshal Rudd. "A single spark can cause irreversible injury or a devastating house fire. We strongly encourage all Delawareans and visitors to celebrate our nation's milestone safely by attending one of the many spectacular professionally managed public displays hosted throughout the First State."

What is Prohibited?

Aerial and explosive fireworks of any type are prohibited throughout the year. Prohibited fireworks include the following: bottle rockets, firecrackers or fire balloons, aerials like Roman candles, and any other device that explodes or shoots into the air is prohibited per the fireworks chapter of Delaware's Health and Safety code, Title 16, Chapter 69, D. Not only are these fireworks prohibited in Delaware, but it is also illegal to purchase them across state lines and bring them back to Delaware. Firework misuse and/or illegal possession are misdemeanor crimes that can result in fines. However, any injuries or damages caused by firework use can result in felony charges.

The State Fire Marshal reserves the right to confiscate all explosives or fireworks found to be illegally possessed within Delaware.

Safety

As we mark this historic national milestone, we want all Delawareans to celebrate proudly, use common sense, and take a few simple steps to prevent injuries:

• Along with being courteous to neighbors and pets, individuals setting off permitted fireworks at home need to follow proper safety measures when using these fireworks.
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit-hot enough to melt some metals.
• Proper disposal of permitted fireworks is extremely important. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire or other mishap. Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Dispose of the used fireworks by placing them in a bucket filled with water and place the bucket at least 10 feet away from any buildings, homes, or decks for at least 12 hours.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), fireworks cause thousands of preventable injuries every year. In 2025, CPSC received reports of at least 15 deaths and an estimated 13,000 emergency department-treated injuries linked to fireworks misuse and malfunction. There were an estimated 1,300 injuries involving sparklers alone. The 15-to-24 age group accounted for the largest share of injuries, and burns to the hands, fingers and head were most common. Many of the most severe incidents involved devices that tipped over, malfunctioned or were used too close to people.

This year is especially dangerous to use any consumer fireworks because of the dry conditions. The safe alternative is to attend professional fireworks shows. All in-state fireworks shows are controlled events, with permitted displays by licensed pyrotechnicians. Any use of fireworks by a licensed company or association requires a permit which details who is igniting the display and the location. These permit applications must be submitted to the State Fire Marshal's Office at least 30 days prior to the event for approval.

For more information on Fireworks in Delaware please visit our website https://statefiremarshal.delaware.gov/investigations/fireworks/ or contact us at [email protected]

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