Guest Commentary | Use fireworks safely, respectfully, responsibly
As America prepares to celebrate The Declaration of Independence and its 250th Birthday this July 4th, we at Phantom Fireworks encourage everyone to honor this historic milestone with both excitement and consideration.
For two and a half centuries, Independence Day has brought families, friends, and communities together to celebrate the freedoms and traditions that unite us all.
As we gather to mark this once-in-a-lifetime occasion, we encourage everyone to enjoy fireworks responsibly, while remaining mindful of neighbors, veterans, pets, and others who may be sensitive to the sights and sounds of the holiday.
By celebrating with respect and courtesy, we can help ensure a safe, memorable and enjoyable Fourth of July for all.
There are several ways to be considerate of your neighbors when using fireworks. Clear and early communication is key.
Let your neighbors know when you plan to begin your display, especially if you live near veterans.
That notice should include an estimated start time and duration.
This allows them to make any necessary accommodations for themselves, their children, or their pets, who may be more comfortable enjoying the festivities from a distance.
Also, sharing your plans gives neighbors the chance to step outside and enjoy the show together, fostering a sense of community and celebration.
Another key aspect of consideration is respecting property.
We urge customers to carefully choose launch sites and fallout zones to prevent debris from affecting neighboring properties.
Wet the ground ahead of time to ensure errant sparks or ashes do not ignite dry or grassy areas. After the show, thoroughly clean up all debris and check adjacent properties to ensure no remnants are left behind.
We encourages all customers to make safety their top priority by following product instructions, adhering to local laws and regulations, and using good judgment when celebrating.
Thanks to increased consumer awareness and responsible fireworks use, fireworks consumption has grown by more than 175% from 1994 to 2025, while fireworks-related injuries have declined by 62.6% during the same period.
By continuing to celebrate responsibly, we can help ensure a safe and memorable July 4th for everyone.
For more safety information, recommendations, and guidelines, please visit the Phantom Fireworks website.
William A. Weimer is the vice president of Phantom Fireworks.