For those setting off fireworks in Queen Creek, both the town's fire and police departments ask that you take the time to review their YouTube video of safety tips HERE.
In the video, Capt. David Vilt, with Queen Creek Fire and Medical, and Sgt. Megan Erwin, with the Queen Creek Police Department, discuss fireworks safety and state laws that residents need to be aware of, especially this year. This is the first year the town has its own police department that plans to enforce the laws and up its patrol this holiday weekend.
It is important to know what types of fireworks are legal within the town, when they can be used, how to safely use them and tips on how to be a good Queen Creek neighbor.
Legal consumer fireworks include ground displays and sparkling devices; any devices that rise into the air and explode/detonate or fly above the ground are illegal (i.e. skyrockets/bottle rockets, reloadable shell devices, aerials and single-tube devices that are shot up into the air).
State statute determines when legal consumer fireworks can be sold and used. The use of legal consumer fireworks is restricted to June 24 through July 6. Illegal fireworks are never permitted within the town limits.
Legal consumer fireworks are only allowed on private property, and individuals who use, discharge or ignite permissible consumer fireworks are responsible and liable for expenses as a result of any emergency response that is required. With an increase in fires happening throughout the state, it is important to be extremely cautious.
To reduce risks associated with 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 re-light 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, place the spent device in a bucket of water overnight before discarding in the trash to prevent a trash fire.
- Only use legal consumer fireworks and always leave the fireworks that rise into that air (illegal for consumer use) to the professionals
Fireworks can also pose a risk to pets and livestock. The following safety tips are recommended:
- Do not take your pet to firework displays.
- 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.
- Never use fireworks around your pet or livestock and be aware of your neighbors’ pets and livestock.
If you suspect illegal fireworks are being used in your neighborhood, contact QCPD’s non-emergency number at 480-358-3500.
For additional information regarding fireworks, including safe disposal tips, visit QueenCreekAZ.gov/Fireworks. To report non-emergency issues, visit QueenCreekAZ.gov/SeeClickFix.
