Summer celebrations are heating up, and with the Fourth of July right around the corner, fireworks are about to light up the skies and fill up the trash. At Capital Waste Services, we’re reminding our customers that while fireworks are fun, disposing of them improperly can cause serious safety hazards, including fires, injuries, and damage to sanitation equipment.

Why Proper Firework Disposal Matters

Fireworks may seem like they are finished once the show is over, but used fireworks can stay hot for hours. Tossing them into your garbage or recycling bin while they are still active or smoldering can result in fires in your bin, our trucks, or even the landfill. That is why proper disposal is not only responsible, it is critical.

Simple Steps for Safe Disposal

Here is how you can safely dispose of fireworks after your festivities:

  1. Let them cool completely
     After fireworks have been used, allow them to sit and cool for several hours. Preferably overnight in a safe, open space away from people, animals, or flammable materials.
  2. Soak them in water
     Submerge spent fireworks in a bucket of water. Let them soak for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This ensures any lingering embers or reactive chemicals are completely neutralized.
  3. Seal and contain
     After soaking, wrap the wet fireworks in plastic or a trash bag to contain any excess water or chemicals. This also prevents accidental ignition from friction or pressure in the truck.
  4. Place in your trash bin, not recycling
    Fireworks, even when used or soaked, should never go in your recycling cart. Always dispose of them with your regular household garbage.

Unused or duds? Handle with care

If you have unused fireworks or duds that did not ignite, do not try to relight them. Soak them fully in water, then dispose of them like used fireworks. For large quantities of unused fireworks, contact your local fire department for advice on proper disposal.

Let’s Keep It Clean and Safe This Summer

From backyard cookouts to fireworks in the driveway, summer is a time for celebration. Let’s work together to make it a safe one. Proper firework disposal protects your home, your neighbors, and the essential workers who handle your waste each week.

From all of us at Capital Waste Services, stay safe, celebrate responsibly, and have a happy Fourth of July