DELAWARE – 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 this holiday weekend.

With unprecedented crowds and community events planned across the state, Delaware fire officials are tracking a heightened risk of preventable injuries and property damage from illegal consumer fireworks. Further, with a drought watch declared statewide, DSFMO is intensifying its public education and enforcement efforts throughout the 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 John W. 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.”

Fireworks: What’s allowed and what isn’t?

State Fire Marshal Rudd reminds residents and visitors that the possession, sale, and use of most consumer fireworks are illegal at all times under Delaware law. Firecrackers, roman candles, bottle rockets, aerial fireworks, and other explosives are included in the prohibition. Further, any other device that explodes or shoots into the air is prohibited per the fireworks chapter of Delaware’s Health and Safety code.

DSFMO also reminds Delawareans that it is illegal to purchase fireworks across state lines and bring them back to Delaware. Firework misuse and/or illegal possession are misdemeanor crimes that can result in fines; but, any injuries or damages caused by firework use can result in felony charges.

However, 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 Independence Day. Permitted ground-based fireworks include the following:

• Spinners
• Fountains
• Jumping jacks
• Ground blooms
• Handheld sparklers

These fireworks can be purchased by a person 18 years or older between Jun. 4 and Jul. 4. DSFMO urges caution when using legal novelties as even they can pose severe burn risks, with sparklers burning at temperatures hot enough to melt gold.

Firework Safety Tips

DSFMO offers the following tips to ensure that Delawareans celebrate the holiday safely:

• Follow proper safety measures when using fireworks
• Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby when lighting fireworks in case of fire or other mishaps
• Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Dispose of used fireworks by placing them in a bucket filled with water located at least 10 feet away from any buildings for at least 12 hours.

Fire officials maintain the safest alternative to lighting your own fireworks is to attend professional fireworks shows. For a full list of fireworks on Delmarva, click here.