06/20/2026
Even though we know just how dangerous fireworks can be, every year, thousands of people end up in emergency rooms with severe burns, eye injuries, or even devastating amputations. Besides the traumatic injuries, JULY 4TH IS THE DAY OF THE YEAR WITH THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF HUMAN-CAUSED WILDFIRES IN THE UNITED STATES, reporting nearly double the average number of daily blazes.
Whether you plan to host your own backyard celebration or attend festivities elsewhere, here are a few of the most critical firework safety tips to remember this holiday:
• If sparklers are part of your celebration, keep in mind that these novelties burn at a blistering 2,000° Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt metal. Because of this, a lit sparkler can cause a severe third-degree burn in less than a second.
• If a firework fails to ignite, do not try to relight it. Wait at least 20 minutes and douse it thoroughly in a bucket of water before throwing it away.
• Prepare your detonation area for fire emergencies and be sure to keep a large bucket of water or a running hose nearby to extinguish stray sparks.
• Adhere to strict safety perimeters by maintaining a distance of at least 35 feet for ground-based devices and 150 feet or more for aerial fireworks.
• Follow proper disposal protocol by fully submerging both used and unused fireworks in water for several hours before discarding in your outdoor trash can.
We would also like to gently remind everyone that, per city ordinance, personal fireworks are strictly prohibited within the Libby city limits. While it is tempting to join in on the fun, this ban is vital for the safety of our homes, your neighbor’s homes, and the comfort of our pets. Thank you for your cooperation and have a safe celebration.
