06/26/2026
Police and Fire Chief Joint Statement on Fireworks Safety
As your Police Chief of the City of Quincy and Fire Chief of Grant County Fire District 3, we would like to emphasize the importance of fireworks safety, especially as we approach the 4th of July Holiday. While fireworks can be a source of joy and entertainment, they also pose significant risks if not handled responsibly.
Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of our community members, and we urge everyone to follow these essential guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
1. Legal Compliance: Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations governing the use of fireworks in our jurisdiction. Understand what types of fireworks are legal and where they can be used. Respect these rules to avoid potential legal consequences. Quincy Municipal Code 9.16.100 states that fireworks are only allowed to be discharged in the city between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. on July 3 and from 9 a.m. till midnight on July 4th.
2. Purchase from Reliable Sources: Only purchase fireworks from reputable and licensed vendors. These vendors offer products that meet safety standards and have undergone proper testing. Avoid purchasing fireworks from unregulated sources or those that appear homemade.
3. Adult Supervision: Fireworks should only be handled by responsible adults who are familiar with their safe usage. Always keep fireworks out of the reach of children. Children should never be allowed to handle or ignite fireworks.
4. Designated Igniter: Assign a responsible adult as the designated igniter. This person should be knowledgeable about fireworks safety and should abstain from alcohol or any substances that impair judgment while handling fireworks.
5. Safe Location: Find an open, outdoor area away from buildings, dry vegetation, and other flammable materials. Ensure there are no overhanging trees, power lines, or other obstructions that could pose a risk.
6. Read and Follow Instructions: Carefully read the instructions and warning labels on each firework before use. Understand how to properly ignite them and maintain a safe distance from the point of ignition.
7. Protective Gear: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris and sparks. Consider wearing ear protection to minimize the impact of loud noises.
8. Water and Fire Extinguishers: Have a water source nearby, such as a hose or a bucket of water, to extinguish fireworks that may malfunction or cause unintended fires. Keep a fire extinguisher readily accessible as an additional precaution.
9. Disposal of Used Fireworks: After fireworks have completely burned out, soak them in water before disposing of them in a non-flammable container. Never dispose of fireworks in a regular trash bin.
10. Reporting Emergencies: In the event of a fire, injury, or any other emergency related to fireworks, immediately contact the appropriate authorities by dialing 911.
Remember, fireworks are explosives and should be treated with the utmost respect and caution. By adhering to these safety guidelines, we can ensure a memorable and incident-free celebration for everyone.
Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our community safe.
Ryan Green -Police Chief, City of Quincy Police Department
David Durfee -Fire Chief, Grant County Fire District #3
