Firework safety
Office of Health Promotion and Prevention
Firework safety
Fireworks are a beloved tradition in Utah for celebrating and creating cherished memories with family and friends. However, it's important to handle fireworks safely to avoid injuries and accidental fires. The safest way to enjoy fireworks would be to attend professional displays.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) — Fireworks started an estimated 34,079 fires in 2024, including 3,246 structure fires, 857 vehicle fires, 29,517 outside fires, and 459 unclassified fires. These fires caused an estimated 59 civilian injuries and $98 million in direct property damage.
Firework safety tips:
Purchase and use of fireworks
You can legally purchase state-approved Class C fireworks in Utah during three specific windows: June 24–July 25, December 29–December 31, and two days before and on Chinese New Year’s Eve.
Personal (Class C) fireworks may only be discharged between 11 a.m. and 11 p.m. (extended to midnight on the holiday itself) during these periods:
- Independence Day: July 2–July5 (extended until midnight on July 4).
- Pioneer Day: July 22–July 25 (extended until midnight on July 24).
- New Year’s Eve: Starts at 11 a.m. on December 31 and ends 1 a.m. on January 1.
- Chinese New Year: Starts at 11 a.m. on Chinese New Year’s Eve and ends 1 a.m. on Chinese New Year’s Day.
Important restrictions and bans
- Public lands: fireworks are strictly banned year-round on all state parks, state and federal forest lands, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) property.
- Verify your area: Before purchasing or lighting fireworks, verify local rules and restricted zone maps with your local municipality. Additional sources include the Utah State Fire Marshal and the Unified Fire Authority for jurisdiction-specific updates.
Sparklers are more dangerous than you think
Every year, young children can be found along parade routes and at festivals with sparklers in hand, but sparklers are a lot more dangerous than most people think.
Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing, and children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers accounted for 29% fireworks injuries for children under age 5 in 2022.
Consider using safer alternatives, such as glow sticks, confetti poppers or colored streamers.