Consumer Fireworks
South Carolina state law prohibits fireworks from being sold to anyone younger than 16 years old. For those choosing to use consumer fireworks, the State Fire Marshal suggests these safety tips:

Before Igniting Consumer Fireworks

  • Observe local laws. If unsure whether it is legal to use fireworks, check with local officials.

  • Observe local weather conditions. Dry weather can make it easier for fireworks to start a fire.

  • Buy from permitted fireworks retailers.

  • Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.

  • Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks.

  • Use common sense. Always read and follow the directions on each firework.

  • Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass, and trees.

  • Ensure people and pets are out of range before lighting fireworks.

  • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks.

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

  • Avoid buying fireworks packaged in brown paper. This is often a sign the fireworks were made for professional displays and could pose a danger to consumers.

  • Be careful when using sparklers as they burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees.

During and After Igniting Consumer Fireworks

  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

  • Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak it in water and throw it away.

  • Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.

  • Never carry fireworks in a pocket.

  • Never shoot fireworks from metal or glass containers.

  • Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse.

  • Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly to a safe distance.

  • Put used fireworks in a bucket of water; keep a garden hose on hand.

For Further Information

Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Fireworks Safety Center: 
http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks .

Top 10 Fireworks Safety Tips:

  1. Use fireworks outdoors only. Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers. Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

  1. Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks including sparklers. Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.

  1. Avoid buying fireworks packaged in brown paper. This is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers.

  1. Be careful when lighting the fuse.  Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Light fireworks one at a time, then quickly back up to a safe distance.

  1. Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

  1. Only use fireworks as intended. Don’t try to alter them or combine them. They can kill you!

  1. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap. After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water before discarding it to prevent a trash fire.

  1. Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.

  1. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a “designated shooter.”

  1. Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.