How to Store Fireworks

Place fireworks in a plastic container with a lid.

Plastic is sturdy and an excellent storage option. Plastic containers are affordable and easy to seal, which means that they can keep your fireworks secure for long periods of time. Try to use a lid when storing your fireworks for an extra layer of protection. In a pinch, a plastic tote bag can work as well.

Use a lock and label to keep them secure.

To protect your fireworks from being tampered with, lock them up. A plastic storage container with a lock works well for this. Even if you can’t lock up your fireworks, be sure to clearly label them. This will let others know to treat your box of fireworks with care.

Keep them away from temperatures over 130 °F (54 °C).

Storing your fireworks in a cool location keeps them safe. In very hot areas that reach over 130 °F (54 °C), fireworks can ignite. Therefore, try not to keep fireworks in a hot car, attic, or garage if there’s a risk of these places getting extremely hot there. Instead, opt for a cooler location, like a basement.

Store the fireworks in an area with low humidity.

Humidity can ruin fireworks with prolonged exposure. Although a couple of muggy days aren’t likely to ruin your fireworks, if you live in an area that is very humid (regularly over 50%), it’s best to keep your fireworks inside or in an air-conditioned space. With too much humidity, the gunpowder in your fireworks will collect too much moisture to be able to light.

Keep them away from flames and water.

Open flames and sources of water are fireworks’ worst enemies. A firework exposed to an open flame—like any flames from your kitchen, an outdoor barbecue, or a fire pit—can ignite, causing serious damage. Water will render your fireworks unusable, so keep them out of any location where they might be exposed to rain or leaks. Avoid smoking or using candles near your stored fireworks.

Separate them from electronic appliances.

It’s unlikely, but refrigerators or freezers could create sparks. During an extreme weather event, such as lightning or power surges, it’s possible that these devices can overload and set nearby fireworks off. Although the chances of this happening are slim, it’s best to be safe and store your fireworks away from any electronic devices.

Put fireworks out of reach from children.

Fireworks are dangerous for kids, so keep them far away. Children account for more than a third of emergency room visits for fireworks-related injuries. To keep any kids in your home safe, place the fireworks out of reach, either on a high shelf or in a locked box. Having fireworks in your home can also be a good opportunity to talk to your kids about fire safety.

Avoid moving fireworks around too much.

Keeping your fireworks in one place protects their longevity. Moving around your box of fireworks too often can cause the contents within the firework to spill or otherwise fall apart. This can lead to your firework failing to light when you need it. When you’ve found a good place for your fireworks, try not to move them again unless it’s really necessary.

Dispose of fireworks you don’t want.

Many fire departments recommend getting rid of fireworks after a celebration. Since fireworks will always pose some risk, deciding to dispose of them may be the responsible decision for your property and family. To dispose of fireworks, soak them in a bucket of water for at least 15 minutes, wrap them in plastic wrap or a plastic bag, then put them in the trash. If your fireworks came in a brown paper bag, it’s best to dispose of them. These fireworks are meant for professional use, not for households.

Store fireworks for no longer than a couple of years.

If you have old fireworks gathering dust, get rid of them. Although properly stored fireworks can last for several years, it’s normally best to use them or get rid of them within a couple of years. You can save fireworks for next year, but over several years, the gunpowder inside can become unstable. This might cause them to not ignite the way they’re intended to.

Check your local laws about fireworks.

Local laws limit your ability to store fireworks. In the United States, most local communities have their own rules about keeping and lighting fireworks. Your city or state may not allow you to keep fireworks after the 4th of July or other holiday events. Check your local laws to be sure that you can store them in the first place. It’s frustrating to have to order fireworks again each time you want to celebrate with them, but keep in mind that until relatively recently, fireworks were illegal for household use in much of the country.