Front Royal and Warren County Officials Urge Fireworks Safety and Legal Compliance This Fourth of July

As the Fourth of July approaches, public safety officials in Warren County and the Town of Front Royal are urging residents to celebrate responsibly and to know the law when it comes to fireworks.

The Warren County Department of Fire and Rescue Services, the County Fire Marshal’s Office, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, and the Front Royal Police Department are all working together this holiday weekend to ensure that festivities remain safe and legal.

Officials are reminding the public that it is unlawful in Virginia to possess, sell, store, or use any firework that explodes or travels into the air. This includes bottle rockets, firecrackers, Roman candles, and any aerial shells. Violating this law is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a possible penalty of up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500. Illegal fireworks can also be seized and destroyed.

Law enforcement and fire officials will be patrolling neighborhoods throughout the holiday to enforce these laws and protect public safety.

“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to watch them at a community event where professionals handle them,” said Fire Marshal Gerry R. Maiatico. He added that if individuals choose to use legal fireworks at home, children should never handle them, regardless of age, without adult supervision.

Fireworks Safety Tips

To help prevent injuries, fires, and legal issues, officials released the following fireworks safety recommendations:

• Use only fireworks that are legal in Virginia.
• Confirm fireworks are permitted in your local area before purchasing or using them.
• Never allow young children to handle or ignite fireworks.
• Avoid fireworks wrapped in brown paper—they’re often made for professional displays and can be hazardous.
• Always have adult supervision when using fireworks.
• Keep in mind that sparklers burn at temperatures up to 2,000°F, hot enough to cause severe burns.
• Never place any part of your body over a firework when lighting it.
• Step back quickly after lighting fireworks and never try to relight a dud.
• Never aim or throw fireworks at people, pets, or buildings.
• Have a bucket of water or a hose nearby for emergencies.
• Do not carry fireworks in your pocket or fire them from metal or glass containers.
• Soak used fireworks thoroughly in water before discarding them to prevent trash fires.

According to safety data, fireworks-related injuries spike around the July 4th holiday each year. Most injuries occur due to misuse, improper handling, or the use of illegal fireworks.

Sheriff Crystal Cline, Police Chief Brian Whited, and Fire Chief James Bonzano expressed gratitude to the community for helping ensure a safe celebration this year. By following the law and practicing caution, they say residents can enjoy the holiday without tragedy.

For more information about fireworks safety or local laws, visit www.warrencountyfire.com or call the Warren County Fire Marshal’s Office at 540-636-3830.

This Independence Day, let the professionals handle the pyrotechnics, and keep the fireworks where they belong: in the sky, not in your backyard.