Safe Handling of Failed Fireworks: How to Dispose of Dud Fireworks Safely
If a firework does not go off, it is crucial to handle the situation carefully to ensure everyone's safety. Follow these essential steps to deal with a malfunctioning firework safely while complying with local laws and regulations.
Stay Safe
The first rule in dealing with fireworks is to prioritize safety. Keep a safe distance from the firework and wait for at least 20 minutes before approaching it. This waiting period can help to ensure that the firework is no longer active.
Do Not Attempt to Relight
Attempting to relight a firework that has not ignited can be extremely dangerous. This action could result in the firework exploding unexpectedly. Therefore, avoid handling the firework under any circumstances.
Soak It
After the waiting period, if it is safe to do so, soak the firework in a bucket of water for several hours. This process ensures that the firework is completely extinguished and no longer poses a risk.
Dispose Properly
Once the firework has been soaked and is determined to be safe, dispose of it according to local regulations. Many areas have specific guidelines for disposing of used or failed fireworks. Proper disposal ensures that no one is at risk and protects the environment.
Report the Incident
If you believe the firework is malfunctioning or poses a risk, report the incident to local authorities or fire officials. Their expertise can help ensure that the situation is handled safely and legally.
Educate Yourself
Before using fireworks in the future, familiarize yourself with firework safety guidelines. Knowledge is the best tool to prevent accidents and keep you and others safe.
Additional Precautions Against Malfunction
Regardless of the technical specification, malfunctioning fireworks might still be emitting heat. Therefore, if a firework does not ignite, it is best to wait for at least 30 minutes or completely immerse it in water. This approach significantly reduces the risk of injury or unexpected ignition.
Never pick up, handle, or look down the launch tube of a malfunctioning firework. The potential danger is immense. As a tragic example, a man in Livermore, California, was killed several years ago when he looked down a hangfire mortar just as the launch charge ignited, decapitating him at over 300 miles per hour. Such accidents highlight the importance of caution.
If the malfunction is a hangfire, leave the firework alone and mark the area with warnings to others. Some people might consider immersing the item in water, but this method is not always effective. Fireworks taken out of rivers and immersed in water have still been known to function, rendering this method unreliable.
When duds are certain that the fuse is out, they should be disposed of carefully. The recommended method is to burn them with fire extinguishers on standby in case nearby grass or other flammable materials accidentally catch fire. Each dud must be handled individually to ensure that no one is at risk.
By following these steps and educating yourself, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience with fireworks. Prioritizing safety and adhering to local regulations is the best approach to dealing with failed fireworks.