Queen Creek: practice fireworks safety on New Year’s Eve

Fireworks are a hallmark of New Year’s Eve celebrations, but their use can be dangerous and even fatal.

The Queen Creek Fire & Medical Department and Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office District 6 – Queen Creek remind residents not all fireworks are legal in Arizona. Legal consumer fireworks include ground and sparkling devices.

Consumer fireworks that continue to be illegal for use in Arizona include firecrackers and any devices that go into the air, such as skyrockets/bottle rockets, reloadable shell devices, aerials and single-tube devices that are shot up into the air.

Fireworks will be sold in stores throughout the town of Queen Creek, but the town has an ordinance that restricts the use of fireworks within town limits through Jan. 3. Consumer fireworks are only allowed on private property. Any individuals who uses, discharges or ignites permissible consumer fireworks are responsible and liable for expenses as a result of any emergency response that is required.  

Fireworks can cause serious burns and injuries. The National Fire Protection Association reports approximately 18,500 fires are caused by fireworks each year. Nearly 13,000 people were treated at the hospital for firework-related injuries in 2017. To reduce risks associated with consumer fireworks, Queen Creek Fire and Medical recommends the following safety tips:  

• Adults should always supervise fireworks activities. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 1,200 degrees and can cause serious injuries.
• Avoid buying fireworks that come in brown paper packaging.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move back to a safe distance immediately after lighting.
• Never try to relight or pick-up fireworks that have not fully functioned.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
• Light fireworks one at a time then move back quickly.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• After fireworks fully complete their functioning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding them to prevent a trash fire.

Fireworks can also pose a risk to pets. The following safety tips are recommended for pets:

• Never use fireworks around your pet, and be aware of your neighbors’ pets.
• Provide a safe area away from loud noises.
• Do not place glow sticks or jewelry on your pet.
• Have your pet properly identified with a microchip and/or ID tag.

If you suspect illegal fireworks are being used in your neighborhood, contact the MCSO District 6 – Queen Creek non-emergency number immediately at 602-876-1011.