LegalEase – Special Edition – July 4th, 2025

The story of fireworks begins in China around 200 B.C. To drive away evil spirits people threw bamboo into fire, causing caused loud explosions. By 800 A.D., a Chinese alchemist accidentally created gunpowder by mixing sulfur, charcoal, and potassium nitrate, forever changing history. This new substance was packed into bamboo or paper tubes and lit, creating the first true fireworks. Though they lacked color and stayed close to the ground, they quickly became central to Chinese celebrations.

In the Song Dynasty (960–1279 A.D.), fireworks became widespread. Skilled pyrotechnicians crafted elaborate displays for emperors, and firecrackers were common during public festivities.

By the 13th century, knowledge of gunpowder spread west through traders and missionaries. In Syria fireworks were called “Chinese Flowers”. Europeans adapted the technology for military  uses. Firemasters orchestrated shows, aided by costumed assistants called “Green Men”.

Fireworks made their way to the American colonies in the 18th century. On July 2, 1776, John Adams predicted independence would forever be celebrated with “illuminations.” His vision came true just a year later, when fireworks lit up the skies on July 4, 1777. By the 19th century, fireworks displays had become an annual custom across American cities.

In the 1830s fireworks burst into color, thanks to Italian inventors who added metals like strontium (red) and copper (blue), giving us the vibrant displays we know today.

Fireworks on the National Mall

Each year, one of the most iconic and spectacular Fourth of July celebrations unfolds on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., set against a backdrop of monuments and memorials that honor our nation’s history.

Fireworks 101: What You’re Seeing and Hearing

From soaring rockets and Roman candles to sparklers and ground spinners, fireworks come in all forms – each with unique visual and auditory effects. Aerial displays might bloom into a chrysanthemum of sparkling trails, drape the sky with golden willow branches, or ripple like a brocade of shimmering fabric. These vivid bursts are often accompanied by a chorus of bangs, whistles, crackles, and hums – each created through precise chemical reactions.

The Legal Landscape: Firework Regulations

Firework laws vary by state, and in Maryland, strict regulations apply for personal use:

• Permitted: Only certain non-aerial, non-explosive sparklers and novelty items.
• Prohibited: All aerial and explosive fireworks.
• Minimum Age to purchase: 16.

Staying Safe

Fireworks can be dangerous when misused. In 2024, over 14,700 injuries and 11 deaths were  due to fireworks in the U.S. Even sparklers – burning at 2,000°F – can cause serious burns.

Safety Tips

• Never let young children handle fireworks
• Always supervise older children
• Avoid using fireworks while impaired
• Wear protective eyewear
• Use only outdoors, away from people and structures
• Light one firework at a time; never relight duds
• Soak used fireworks before disposal
• Keep water or a hose nearby
• Consider safer alternatives like glow sticks or confetti poppers

Beyond the Bang: Fireworks and the Environment

While fireworks fill the sky with wonder, they also leave behind smoke, dust, and chemical residue – including heavy metals and toxins that pollute the air and water. These pollutants can harm the environment.  They also can cause intense distress in animals, both domestic and wild. The loud explosions often result in panic, injuries, or pets running away. To protect your pets, keep them indoors in a quiet space, and consider calming aids or background noise during fireworks shows.

Are there any topics you would like to hear more about? Email our Paralegal, Sheila, at Sheila@bienstocklegal.com or call us at 301-251-1600.

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Believe It or Don’t

• Pennsylvania allows the sale of fireworks, but, if you live there, you’re not allowed to buy them.
• You can buy fireworks in Florida but must sign a waiver that you’re going to use them for scaring birds away from farms
• The sale of fireworks is legal in Ohio, but only if you say you will take them out of the state within 48 hours.