Fireworks booths seem to dot the corner of every parking lot in the region and, in California, all directly support the community. But how do you choose where to go and what to buy? Before buying any fireworks, there are a few things you need to know, including various legal and safety guidelines.

1//Don’t allow the lure of a great deal lead you to break the law. Never purchase fireworks online: Craigslist, Amazon, or any other online dealer. Fireworks purchases should from a legal fireworks booth with a posted Seller’s Permit and a stamped, signed State Fire Marshal Certificate.

2//Always look for the State Fire Marshal Seal. Fireworks with generic wrappers or no wrapper should never be purchased or lit.  California only allows the sale of “safe and sane” fireworks that will never shoot out orbs or leave the ground. A not-so-fun fact: Even having illegal fireworks is breaking the law. “A person in possession of unaltered dangerous fireworks is punishable as a misdemeanor or a public offense with fines ranging from $500 to more than $50,000.”

3//Check if your city allows fireworks. Just because fireworks are sold in California does not mean that your county or city allows them to be detonated. For a list of counties that allow safe and sane fireworks, visit thefireworkssupercenter.com.

4//Fireworks sales are only allowed for one week. In California, this year that is from June 28-July 4. Purchases of fireworks cannot be made before or after that date.

5//Fireworks should only ever be ignited by an adult and under adult supervision. Also, it is good to keep a bucket of water, a garden hose nearby, or you can purchase a small fire extinguisher in case of a fire or a malfunctioning firework. 

6//Purchase fireworks with a “no duds” guarantee. There’s nothing worse than purchasing a firework then finding out it is a dud. If any firework does not work properly, never try to relight it. Fireworks Supercenters has a no-duds guarantee, which means if your firework does not discharge properly, you can get your money back.

Article courtesy of Fireworks Supercenters, which support over 10 local nonprofits and have a large selection of Safe and Sane, California Fire Marshal approved, exclusive fireworks. Visit thefireworkssupercenter.com to find which of the five locations is nearest you and to receive coupons and a free firework with purchase.