Fireworks Bucket Brigade

Help keep South County safe this fireworks season

The South Montgomery County Fire Department is launching a community-wide initiative this summer to promote personal fireworks safety and proper disposal practices.

Inspired by the historic model of community firefighting, we invite you to join a modern-day Fireworks Bucket Brigade, a team effort to safely dispose of personal fireworks and prevent fires in our community. 

The initiative encourages people to soak spent personal fireworks overnight. This simple step prevents trash, garage, and home fires caused by improper disposal. Improper disposal of personal fireworks is a leading cause of fireworks-related fires. 

Fireworks stands in South County

As part of this effort, we will distribute a limited number of specially marked 3.5 -gallon buckets to local fireworks stands to help residents safely dispose of used fireworks and reduce the risk of fire.

Each bucket will feature educational stickers with clear disposal instructions. Supplies are limited, and buckets will be provided to the public through local fireworks stands starting in late June.

If you miss out on receiving one of these buckets this season, you can still safely dispose of fireworks by using a sturdy container of your own, such as a metal bucket or a large plastic container.

Fireworks Bucket Brigade: 3 steps for disposal

    1.  Fill the Bucket with water

    2. Soak used fireworks in water after use

    3.  Dispose of wet fireworks in the trash

Fireworks safety tips

• • • If a fire starts, call 911 immediately
    • Be Prepared: Keep a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby in case of emergencies
    • Soak Used Fireworks: Soak all fireworks, even ones that didn’t go off, overnight in a bucket. Wrap soaked fireworks in plastic (trash bags, Ziplocs, plastic wrap) to keep them from drying out, place in a covered trash can outside, away from any structures.
    • Avoid Recycling: Never put fireworks in recycling — they are not recyclable
    • Stay Informed: Check local fire restrictions before using fireworks
    • Spread the word

Help us raise awareness by sharing this initiative with your friends and family. Together, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable Fourth of July celebration for all.

Special thanks to our generous donors

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the following local business for their generous donations of 3.5 -gallon buckets to support this initiative:

       Kyle Sherburne – State Farm Agent