Spark Responsibly: The importance of a well-written Safety Data Sheet during Firework Season

Summer is here—bringing sunshine, cookouts, and the excitement of fireworks. Whether you're celebrating the Fourth of July, attending a local festival, or hosting a backyard gathering, fireworks are a cherished part of the season. While they add sparkle to any event, fireworks also pose significant safety risks if not handled properly. In 2024, the U.S. consumed over 300 million pounds of fireworks for both display and consumer purposes. Last year’s reporting shows an uptick in firework related injuries. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 66% of injuries from fireworks occur in the weeks before and after the July 4th holiday.  Of these injuries, 42% of the areas affected include eyes, face, hands, fingers, and legs.  Many of these incidents are preventable with the right precautions and knowledge. Having a comprehensive and accurate Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is essential to enhancing both personal safety and environmental protection. Proper preparation and awareness can make all the difference when it comes to sparking celebrations responsibly.  

The Hazards Behinds the Sparkle and Boom

Fireworks are low explosive pyrotechnic devices used for aesthetic and entertainment purposes. They are commonly used in fireworks displays such as ground-level, aerial, or proximate. Fireworks are typically comprised of explosive materials like gunpowder, oxidizers, perchlorates, and heavy metals. While they look harmless when packaged, these are volatile chemicals that can cause the following hazards:

• Physical:  
  • Ignite unintentionally with elevated temperature or friction
  • Catch surrounding material on fire
• Health:
  • Release toxic fumes
  • Cause burns or blast injuries
  • Skin, eye and respiratory irritation
• Environmental:  
  • Start wildfires or property fires
  • Air, water and soil pollutants  

Helpful Information Found Inside a Well-Written SDS

With standardized, up to date, accurate SDS, the user of the firework has valuable information at the tip of their fingers. Helpful information found on a SDS includes:  

• Recommendations and restrictions on the use of the Product.
• The Supplier’s information in case the user requires additional information regarding the Product.  
• Emergency Contact information for incidents, fires and/or exposure accidents.
• Identifies the physical, health, and/or environmental hazards of the product as well as brief statements describing the prevention, response, storage, and disposal of such hazards.  
• Important proper protective equipment (such as heat-resistant gloves, safety glasses to protect eyes from sparks and other skin and body protection).
• Overview of the product’s composition and hazardous ingredients.
• A guide for Emergency Response: Whether it’s the first person responding to a person exposed to smoke or chemicals emitted by the firework or a fire event, a SDS should provide useful mitigation measures including first-aid steps, correct extinguishing agents and fire-fighting overview.  
• Recommended handling and storage: Fireworks must be stored in cool, dry places away from flammable materials. The SDS will inform the user of specific elements such as temperature, humidity, and incompatibilities to avoid accidental ignition or product compromise.  
• Disposal and transportation information so fireworks are handled properly throughout their lifespan. Correctly disposing of and transporting fireworks is essential for safety, legal compliance, and environmental protection. Mishandling them can lead to injuries, fires, or violations of hazardous materials regulations.

Firework Safety Tips for the Community

• Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and/or product label.  
• Do not eat, drink or smoke while igniting fireworks.
• Keep water or an appropriate fire extinguisher nearby.
• Never re-light a used firework.
• Store fireworks at room temperature and always out of reach of pets and children.  
• Keep spectators at a safe distance.
• Dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water before discarding them correctly.

Conclusion: Ending with a Bang… Safely

Fireworks bring joy and awe to our celebrations—but they demand respect. The glitter and boom hide complex and potentially dangerous chemistry that can have a serious impact on the health and surrounding environment if not handled appropriately. Obtain and review the Safety Data Sheet if provided and especially the manufacturer’s instructions and product label for any firework product. It’s a simple step that can prevent injuries, save property, and ensure your festivities stay safe and enjoyable. We here at CHEMTREC wish you a sparkly and safe Summer Season!