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Get ready for some booms and blasts this New Year

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Published  December 31, 2024 5:22pm EST
Hillsborough County
FOX 13 News

Setting off New Year's Eve fireworks safely

FOX 13's Evan Axelbank talked with Tampa Fire Rescue about the warnings they have ahead of the big celebration.

The Brief

    • Fireworks are fully legal in Florida.
    • Fire departments are issuing fireworks warnings ahead of New Year's Eve.
    • Firefighters recommend letting professionals handle fireworks shows, but they say they understand people without formal training who are setting off on their own on New Year's Eve.

Setting off New Year's Eve fireworks safely

FOX 13's Evan Axelbank talked with Tampa Fire Rescue about the warnings they have ahead of the big celebration.

TAMPA, Fla. - New Year's Eve brings fireworks.

While firefighters recommend letting the professionals handle the show, they understand people without formal training, like setting off on their own. 

Fireworks being blasted into sky.

Fireworks being blasted into sky.

During Independence Day celebrations earlier this year, Tampa Fire Rescue responded to S. O'Brien St. in Port Tampa.

READ: Tampa NYE celebrations bring increased TPD presence 

They found a car on fire with flames spreading to the home.               

It started because of fireworks improperly discarded in a trash bin between the home and the vehicle.               

They say fireworks users should douse them with water after use, then keep them in a metal trash container outside the home.          

Fireworks.

Fireworks.

There should also be a bucket of water or a garden house nearby.

READ: New Florida laws take effect Jan. 1: Here’s what to know               

They're also reminding people not to try to reignite a dud firework and not to let children handle fireworks or even sparklers. 

"Calls (for help with fireworks' injuries) are always traumatic, especially when they deal with fireworks," said Capt. Henry Williams. "They tend to have very visually disturbing images and injuries. Those are the kinds of injuries that stick with you. They are very long-suffering. It takes a lot of skin grafts, a lot of time, a lot of pain that's involved in those types of calls." 

It's perfectly legal to light fireworks, and there is no set distance you have to be from a building.               

There is no official cut-off time, but at least a few of your neighbors might have work in the morning or have a sleeping child at home. 

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