The legal spark: Navigating fireworks safety and liability in Arizona
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Cristina Perez Hesano
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Children should never handle fireworks without close adult supervision — sparklers included. Despite their innocent appearance, sparklers can burn at temperatures hot enough to cause serious injury.”
As a personal injury lawyer, I’ve seen far too many celebrations take a devastating turn. Moments meant to spark joy quickly unraveling into lawsuits, medical emergencies and lifelong consequences, all because of one careless mistake.
With the peak of the festive season approaching, it’s critical we arm ourselves with more than just fireworks — we need knowledge. Understanding the laws around fireworks, the potential liabilities and the steps to keep our communities safe is essential.
Understanding firework regulations in our state
Fireworks are regulated in Arizona. The laws that govern their sale, possession and use are carefully crafted to strike a balance — preserving the spirit of celebration while prioritizing public safety. Not all fireworks are legal for consumer use, and even those that are must be purchased from licensed vendors. Usage is restricted to specific holidays and narrow time windows, and violations can lead to steep fines, confiscation or even criminal charges.
Why such strict oversight? Because fireworks aren’t harmless novelties. They’re controlled explosions. When mishandled, they can cause devastating injuries, fires and widespread damage. These regulations exist to reduce those risks and to hold individuals accountable, ensuring our celebrations don’t end in preventable heartbreak.
Who’s responsible when things go wrong?
The fallout from a firework-related accident often goes far beyond physical injury — it can spark a chain of complex legal disputes. Depending on the circumstances, individuals, businesses and even municipalities may be held liable.
Take, for instance, a private individual who sets off fireworks irresponsibly. If that recklessness results in injury or property damage — whether due to using illegal fireworks, lighting them in restricted areas or failing to keep a safe distance — they could face a negligence claim. Similarly, organizations that host public firework displays are held to high safety standards. Skipping permits, hiring unlicensed pyrotechnicians or failing to manage crowds properly can open the door to serious legal exposure.
One of the most overlooked, yet all-too-common, sources of liability is minors gaining access to fireworks. Parents and guardians can be held legally responsible if a child under their watch misuses fireworks and causes harm.
These examples serve as a critical reminder: accountability in these situations runs deep — and ignorance of the law is no defense when things go wrong.
Safety measures are a shared responsibility
While legal compliance is essential, it’s only part of the equation. Safety practices are just as critical to prevent firework tragedies. Always purchase fireworks from authorized vendors and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the packaging. Only ignite them outdoors, in wide open spaces far from flammable materials and always have a bucket of water or a fire extinguisher on hand in case of emergencies.
Children should never handle fireworks without close adult supervision — sparklers included. Despite their innocent appearance, sparklers can burn at temperatures hot enough to cause serious injury.
Protective gear like goggles can offer an extra layer of defense, and keeping a safe distance from lit fireworks is non-negotiable. And if you’re the one lighting them, avoid drinking alcohol. One careless moment is all it takes for celebration to turn into a catastrophe.
Why heightened vigilance matters
The festive season magnifies the importance of adhering to these safety protocols and legal regulations. With more fireworks lighting up the sky and more people gathering to celebrate, the risk of accidents rises. Crowded neighborhoods, public displays and heightened excitement can quickly turn dangerous if caution is ignored. And unfortunately, it only takes one careless moment to dim the celebration for everyone.
Understanding the law, acknowledging the risks and prioritizing safety are not mere formalities — they are meaningful responsibilities. These actions safeguard not only those handling the fireworks but also the wellbeing of bystanders and our communities. In doing so, they help preserve the very essence of the season: a time for joy, togetherness and shared celebration.
By approaching festivities responsibly, we can light up the night without incident, honoring both the spirit of the season and the safety of those around us. When we celebrate thoughtfully, we not only protect our neighbors, we elevate the experience for everyone.
Editor’s note: Cristina Perez Hesano is founding partner of Perez Law Group, PLLC in Glendale. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
