Volusia County Fire Rescue Urges Caution: Leave Fireworks to the Pros This 4th of July

Edgewater Community News | July 1, 2025

With #IndependenceDay festivities on the horizon, Volusia County Fire Rescue is sounding the alarm—urging residents to opt for professional fireworks displays and skip the beachside booms.

Fire Chief Joe King didn’t mince words: “The safest way to enjoy fireworks is by watching public displays.” His message is rooted in stark numbers—Independence Day sees twice as many reported fires as any other day of the year, half of which are caused by fireworks. And while the night skies may sparkle, the consequences on land and along the coast are far from dazzling.

Fireworks are strictly prohibited on Volusia County beaches, where they threaten not only public safety but also fragile coastal ecosystems. Local officials note that the blasts can scare nesting sea turtles, disrupt shorebird habitats, and leave behind a trail of debris that clutters the sand and chokes marine life.

King also highlighted the dangers of so-called “harmless” favorites like sparklers. “They burn at 1,200 degrees—hot enough to melt some metals—and can easily cause burns or ignite clothing, especially when used by children,” he warned. National statistics back him up: more than 10,000 people are injured by fireworks each year in the U.S.

For those who still choose to use legal fireworks at home, Fire Rescue offers the following vital tips:

🎆 Safety First: Fireworks Guidelines
- Never allow young children to handle fireworks—even sparklers.
- Keep your body clear from any device as you light it.
- Ignite fireworks one at a time, then step back quickly.
- Always have water nearby—bucket or hose—in case of fire.
- Soak used fireworks thoroughly before discarding.
- Clean up all debris to keep your neighborhood safe and beautiful.

Volusia residents can find spectacular public fireworks displays in communities across the county, from Daytona Beach’s riverside celebration to New Smyrna’s beachfront finale. "Let’s celebrate safely—and protect what makes Volusia County so special," Chief King said.

📸 Tag your safe celebrations with #IndependenceDay and join the movement to make this year’s holiday bright—and burn-free.