All fireworks and sparklers need to be SOAKING WET and STAY WET in the trash.

New, Used, Misfired or “Duds” — All fireworks are dangerous when dry!

More fires are reported on July 4th than any other day of the year. And HALF are started while using fireworks. Did you know fireworks placed or disposed of in trash are just as dangerous? ANY amount of powder can catch fire, leave chemical burns, or cause contamination. Safe handling is important at all times, and that includes taking steps so they’re safe to go in the trash. A few extra steps will protect you, your personal property, your Meridian Waste garbageman/woman, and the truck.

How to Make Fireworks Safe for Disposal

STEP 1: Soak in Water

Fully submerge fireworks and fireworks waste in a large bucket of water and soak until thoroughly SATURATED. Soaking them overnight should do the trick!

STEP 2: Seal in Plastic

Once saturated, drain excess water then seal inside a plastic bag SO THEY CAN’T DRY OUT. Place in a resealable plastic bag, or double wrap them in plastic wrap or tied up in two plastic bags.

STEP 3: Place in The Right Container

Fireworks waste MUST be bagged and INSIDE your TRASH container, not placed alongside.

Fireworks CANNOT be put in Recycling or Yard Waste.

FAQs

Can I put fireworks in the trash?

Yes, but first they MUST be soaked in water until totally saturated, then wrapped in plastic to KEEP them wet once they go in the trash.

Even powder residue on wrappers and boxes can ignite and cause serious injuries and death, property damage, and fires, especially in summer.

Can fireworks be recycled or added to yard waste?

No. Fireworks CANNOT be placed in Recycling or Yard Waste. The powder and powder residue are chemicals that can:

Ignite a fire in your recyclables and yard waste.
Contaminate recycling materials during processing.
Contaminate compost (yard waste is turned into compost for gardeners).

You can contact your local customer care team or fire department should you need advice about any particular fireworks.