Celebrate A250 safely: Know the rules before you light fireworks

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. –  As Grand Rapids joins communities across the country in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, the City is reminding residents to enjoy the season safely and responsibly. With more people expected to mark this milestone year with fireworks, the Grand Rapids Fire and Police Departments are urging everyone to understand the rules and take precautions before lighting up the sky.

The City of Grand Rapids has implemented a fireworks ordinance that aligns with state law, governing the use of consumer-grade fireworks. This ordinance not only aims to ensure the safety of residents but also emphasizes the importance of adhering to the rules. Violations of the fireworks ordinance can result in a civil fine of $1,000 per offense.

To maintain a peaceful and secure environment, the City's fireworks ordinance specifies the permitted times and dates for setting off fireworks throughout the year:

• 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. on the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Memorial Day
• 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. on June 19
• 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. June 29 to July 4
• 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. on the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Labor Day
• 11 a.m. December 31 to 1 a.m. January 1

According to Fire Marshal Bill Smith of the GRFD Fire Prevention Division, fireworks injure hundreds of people every year – many of them children. Since July 1st 2022 through July 5, 2025, GRFD responded to over 50 incidents attributed to fireworks.

“Our goal is to reduce risk in our community, educating our citizens about fireworks safety is one of our objectives.” Smith said.

To reduce fireworks accidents and ensure a joyful and incident-free celebration, Smith offers these important fireworks safety tips:

• Read and follow all warnings and instructions labeled on the fireworks packaging.
• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of a malfunction or fire.
• Never allow children to play with or ignite any fireworks. Sparklers, although considered by many the ideal "safe" firework for children, burn at extremely high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing. Many children do not understand the danger involved and cannot act appropriately in case of emergency.
• Don’t aim fireworks at people, animals or any other objects. Move away from fireworks quickly once they are lit.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials. Never light a firework while holding it in your hand!
• Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned. “DUDS” can re-ignite and injure you. If you must move them, consider scooping them up with a shovel and dropping them into a bucket of water to extinguish. Throw them away after they are extinguished. 
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
• Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas. 
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.
• Don't experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Refrain from using fireworks while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or other substances which might impair your judgment
• State law prohibits igniting fireworks on a public street, public sidewalk, park, church, school or public rights of way.
• Before retiring for the evening, make sure that your yard, shrubbery, trees and your home are free of any unwanted burning. Make sure you have working smoke alarms in your home.

The City of Grand Rapids remains committed to promoting a safe and enjoyable environment for all residents. By working together and respecting the rules, we can celebrate the 250^th holiday season while safeguarding our community.

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