After the show: how to properly dispose of fireworks

The Fourth of July is quickly approaching, and with each night leading up to the holiday’s celebration, bright fireworks have lit up the skies around Perkins County.

However, after the show, oftentimes firework garbage is discarded into the street or left by the curb. It is important to properly dispose of fireworks and firework waste, for the safety of both the community and the environment.

Intentionally disposing of firework waste by leaving it in the street can be considered littering, and the Perkins County Sheriff’s department urges all who light off fireworks to properly dispose of the trash.

Sheriff James Brueggeman says firework waste left in the street is not a big issue in this area, but they do see locations throughout various communities where people don’t dispose of their trash.

Leaving fireworks in the street can pose a safety risk for any children or animals who come across the litter. 

To safely dispose of spent or used fireworks, it is important to make sure the container and any remaining contents have cooled off. Do not put any hot, smoldering fireworks waste into a garbage can or dumpster as it may ignite.

Leave them in a safe area to cool while they are hot, and always keep a hose or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of a fire when lighting fireworks.

According to Assistant Fire Chief Fred Reichert, once the waste has completely cooled off, it is safe to put in a garbage can or dumpster. For an extra safety measure, soak firework waste in water for anywhere from an hour to overnight then seal it in a plastic bag to retain moisture before throwing it away.

If any fireworks did not successfully ignite, known as duds, or if fireworks are leftover and unused after the holiday, it is important to dispose of those properly as well.

Unlit fireworks and duds can also be disposed of by soaking them in water until they are waterlogged and sealing them in a bag. Another safe option for disposal of live fireworks is to call the local fire department or sheriff’s office to ask for help with proper disposal.

Excess water from soaking fireworks should be disposed of in an indoor toilet rather than storm drains or into a yard. Fireworks contain many dangerous chemicals, and keeping those chemicals out of drinking water is important.

To safely store unused fireworks after the holiday, make sure to keep them in a cool, dry place, and out of the way of children and pets. Fireworks should not be stored near or on top of gas or electric appliances.

Firework waste, specifically from the firework itself, is not recyclable. This waste must be placed in the trash. Firework packaging, however, is often recyclable and should be taken to a local recycling location.

Cleaning up after the Fourth of July is just another part of the holiday, and it is important for all community members participating in lighting fireworks to properly dispose of the waste.

Contact your local fire department or sheriff’s office with any questions about firework safety and firework disposal.