FIREWORKS: HELP KEEP OUR STORM DRAINS CLEAR

Used fireworks near a storm drain

If you’re planning to use fireworks on and around this 4th of July, be aware of your surroundings and keep clear of waterways to help keep our waterways clean. Additionally be sure to sweep up the debris and dispose of fireworks promptly and properly. Fireworks contain a number of heavy metals and other chemicals that can pollute our streams if washed into storm drains. 

Here are some tips for safe disposal of used fireworks:
• Do not place any fireworks or any part of fireworks in your recycling cart. All used fireworks should be treated as garbage and disposed of as follows:
• Put used fireworks in a bucket of water overnight. Remove them from the water and put them in a garbage bag and into your garbage can.

• Dump the water onto grass or dirt or other landscape where it won’t flow into a storm drain and into the river. Do not pour onto pavement, into the street, or down a storm drain.

Tips for disposal of unused fireworks:
• Do not put in your garbage or recycling; they are explosives and can cause serious harm to workers and the environment.
• Do remove the wicks and then submerge them in water for 24-48 hours. Afterwards, wrap them in plastic wrap or plastic bags and then place them in the trash. Pour the water on the grass or dirt and not on the pavement or down a storm drain, as it may contain nitrates and pollutants.

#OnlyRainDownTheDrain #WaterQuality #BeWaterWise #Fireworks #GoshenStormwater #BeSafe