Your Fireworks Resource

Fireworks 101, FAQs & Safety

Everything you need to know about fireworks — how they work, what to buy, and how to celebrate safely.

Know Your Fireworks

Fireworks 101

"Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to handling fireworks." Understanding what you're buying, how it works, and what the law says keeps everyone safe and the celebration rolling.

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Consumer Fireworks

Consumer fireworks are products approved by the CPSC for public use. They include fountains, sparklers, smoke devices, and novelties — all designed with specific burn rates and outputs for safe consumer use. Red Hot Fireworks carries a curated selection of consumer-legal products available in Arizona.

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Fountains

Ground-based devices that produce a shower of sparks, colors, and effects without launching projectiles into the air. Fountains come in cone or cylinder form and are among the most family-friendly fireworks available. Available year-round at Red Hot Fireworks.

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Sparklers

Wire or wood sticks coated with a slow-burning pyrotechnic composition. They produce bright, glittery sparks and are great for all ages (with adult supervision). Note: sparklers can reach temperatures of up to 2,000°C — always hold away from your body and dispose in water immediately after use.

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Smoke Devices

Produce dense clouds of colored smoke — popular for gender reveals, photography, sporting events, and celebrations. Smoke devices are non-explosive and are one of the most versatile fireworks options. Available year-round at Red Hot Fireworks.

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Know Your Local Laws

Fireworks legality varies by state, county, and city. Arizona permits consumer fireworks sales during specific periods. Some municipalities may further restrict use. Red Hot Fireworks researches all local ordinances and works with officials to ensure every location is fully compliant.

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Storage & Shelf Life

Store fireworks in a cool, dry place — away from heat, open flames, and humidity. Properly stored fireworks can last for years. Never store fireworks in your car or near flammable materials. Keep in original packaging and out of reach of children at all times.

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What We Don't Sell

Red Hot Fireworks does not carry aerial repeaters (cakes), roman candles, firecrackers, or rockets. M-80s and Cherry Bombs have been federally banned since the 1960s and are illegal explosive devices — no reputable retailer sells them. We focus on products that are 100% legal and safe for Arizona consumers.

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

We hear the same great questions all the time. Find your answer below — and if it's not here, our team is always happy to help.

🔴 Red Hot Fireworks Specific
You have fireworks on your website, but why can't I buy fireworks other than smoke and sparklers? +
Red Hot Fireworks can only sell specific types of fireworks year-round — primarily smoke devices and sparklers. All other fireworks (including fountains) can only be sold during specific times of the year, as mandated by Arizona state laws and local ordinances. Check back with us closer to the Fourth of July and New Year's holiday windows when our full seasonal selection becomes available!
Can you ship my order to me? +
At this time, we can only provide local pickup — we do not ship orders. Once your order is placed, our team will have your stock pulled and ready for pickup. We'll let you know as soon as any updates to our fulfillment options are available.
What locations are available for pickup? +
Pickup location will be provided upon checkout. Once your order is placed, our team will have your stock ready for pickup. Contact us directly at 623-218-4800 or visit our Contact page if you have any questions.
📋 General Questions
When are fireworks legal to buy? +
Arizona Permissible Fireworks Sales Windows 2026:
  • April 25 – May 6
  • May 20 – July 6
  • December 10 – January 3
  • Plus specific days surrounding the Diwali holiday
What forms of payment do you accept? +
We accept Cash, Debit Cards, and all major Credit Cards. A credit card device is provided at all our seasonal tent locations for your convenience.
How old do you need to be to purchase fireworks? +
You must be at least 16 years of age to purchase fireworks in Arizona. It is also illegal for anyone under 16 to possess fireworks in a public place. Proof of ID may be required. If you are from another state, it is your responsibility to check local laws regarding age requirements to possess and use fireworks.
What types of fireworks does Red Hot Fireworks sell? +
We sell consumer fireworks that meet the requirements of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). We offer sparklers, smoke items, novelties, and fountains during permitted seasonal windows. By Arizona state law and our product focus, we do not carry aerial repeaters, roman candles, firecrackers, or rockets. Please note that some counties or municipalities may further prohibit certain types of fireworks — check with your local municipality for details.
Do you offer returns or exchanges on fireworks? +
All fireworks sales are final. We do not offer returns or exchanges on fireworks once they leave our location. This policy exists because fireworks that have left the premises cannot be resold — if they have been damaged, modified, or tampered with in any way, reselling them would create a safety hazard for future customers.
My fireworks were confiscated by authorities. Can I get a refund? +
If you purchase fireworks from us that are not permitted in your area or used outside of legal dates, they may be confiscated by authorities. Red Hot Fireworks is not responsible for any actions resulting from such confiscation, and no refund or exchange will be provided. We strongly recommend that you check your local jurisdiction's laws before purchasing.
🎆 Fireworks Specific
Where can I find information about fireworks laws and regulations? +
Visit the American Pyrotechnics Association State Law Directory for a full list of states and their respective laws, regulations, and ordinances pertaining to fireworks. For Arizona specifically, visit the Arizona Firework Law page. Red Hot Fireworks works directly with fire departments across the valley — including Buckeye, Scottsdale, Queen Creek, Gilbert, Phoenix, Peoria, Surprise, and Mesa — to ensure all permits and laws are followed at every location.
Do you sell M-80s or Cherry Bombs? +
No — and neither does any other legitimate retailer. M-80s and Cherry Bombs were federally banned in the 1960s and are classified as illegal explosive devices. Anyone claiming to sell them is operating illegally. We only sell fireworks that are 100% state legal and meet federal consumer safety standards.
Where should I store fireworks when they are not being used? +
Always store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from heat, open flames, and moisture. Properly stored fireworks can last a very long time. Never store fireworks in your vehicle, near flammable materials, or anywhere accessible to children. Keep them in their original packaging until ready to use.
Where can I get safety tips for using fireworks? +
Scroll down to our Safety section on this page for our full Fireworks Safety Code and resource links. You can also visit the National Council on Fireworks Safety, the Arizona Firework Safety & Education page, or the American Pyrotechnics Association for comprehensive safety information.
Celebrate Responsibly

Fireworks Safety

Red Hot Fireworks believes in educating the public on firework safety. We work with fire departments across the valley to ensure all proper permits and laws are followed at every location.

Fireworks Safety Video

Arizona Firework Safety & Education (APSEF)
The leading resource for firework safety education in Arizona.

Visit APSEF ›

📜 Arizona State Firework Information

🏙️ City Guidelines

🔗 Additional Resources

🛡️ The Firework Safety Code

  1. You must be over 16 to buy fireworks and sparklers.
  2. Only buy from a reputable brand and trusted retailer — only buy fireworks and sparklers, nothing else.
  3. Keep fireworks in a closed tin or box until ready to use.
  4. Read the instructions on each firework carefully using a torch or lamp — never a naked flame.
  5. Light sparklers one at a time and be very careful when handling them.
  6. Ensure that children are supervised at all times around fireworks.
  7. Never give sparklers to children under 5 — ensure children wear gloves when handling sparklers.
  8. Sparklers can reach temperatures of up to 2,000°C — treat them with respect.
  9. Never throw fireworks.
  10. Never put a firework in your pocket.
  11. Light fireworks at arm's length using a taper or firework lighter.
  12. Stand well back after lighting.
  13. Dispose of sparklers in a bucket of water as soon as they are finished.
  14. Never go back to a lit firework.
  15. Keep all pets and animals indoors.
  16. Alcohol and fireworks don't mix — if you are in charge of lighting fireworks, avoid drinking.
  17. Never smoke when lighting fireworks.
  18. It is illegal for anyone under 16 to possess fireworks in a public place.
  19. Proof of ID may be required when purchasing fireworks — be prepared.
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Still Have Questions?

Our team is always happy to help. Give us a call, send an email, or fill out our contact form.

✉️ info@RedHotFireworks.com