Because of Chicago Fireworks, we hope you have a blast (pun intended) for the 4th of July, and everybody agrees, you're the go-to-home for fireworks displays the kids and neighbors love! But you just walked into the garage and realized there's a bunch of unused fireworks that are sitting unattended and you're wondering whether they're safe, where to store your fireworks, how long they'll last, and what else you need to know about fireworks storage to make sure you're ready for next year's bash. Cool, we got you covered! Here's the short answer: store unused fireworks in a sealed plastic storage container within a cool, dry, and consistent temperature indoor room, away from fire and water, and out of the reach of kiddos. Let's break that down a little further.

Put Fireworks in a Sealed Plastic Container in an Elevated Area

Store fireworks in a sealed plastic container to keep humidity and moisture away. Fireworks can be preserved for many years, as long as they remain dry, and putting fireworks in a sealed container is a great way to keep them from getting wet or decaying from temperature changes. Note: Added bonus is the container you use has a lock and key, to ensure that no one can get into the fireworks without your permission. Larger manufacturers of fireworks may also choose to store their fireworks in a specialized explosive storage shed that ensures the containment of any explosions. Make sure you put the plastic container in an elevated place, away from the floor, in case of any flooding. Placing the plastic container out of the reach of children is also desirable to ensure that you're the only one who can access the fireworks when you're ready to use them again.

Keep the Plastic Container in a Temperature Controlled Area

Store your fireworks in a temperature controlled room, especially during summer seasons when a particular space may exceed 100 °F. Will your fireworks explode in excessive heat, assuming there is no flame present? The short answer is: no your fireworks will not explode because of temperature i.e. heat according to the Department of Geosciences at San Francisco State University, even in excessive temperatures of 140 °F.  That said, excessive heat may crack plastic, and cause damage to fireworks creating moisture in the gunpowder that ruins the internal makeup. The motivation for storing your fireworks in a plastic container AND a temperature controlled area is simply to preserve the longevity of your fireworks, ensuring their usefulness and safety for the next time you decide to enjoy your own fireworks display.

Store Fireworks Away From Flames, Water, and Appliances

Though we've already touched on this, it bears repeating that you want to store your fireworks in a plastic container, in a temperature controlled room AND away from fire, water and appliances. Many people store their fireworks in a garage, without considering that it may be the first place flooded in a rainstorm. Additionally, we know some cookouts take place in the driveway, and though your fireworks may be stored on the shelves of your garage a good distance away from your grill, it's always better to keep fireworks as far as possible from any source of flame or water. Another common area for storage is the basement, but use common sense to make sure your storage is nowhere near a furnace or hot water heater. Finally, though less likely, fireworks storage near appliances like a basement refrigerator are also ill-advised. Though this is VERY uncommon, severe weather can cause power surges and malfunctioning appliances i.e. sparks. Storing your fireworks away from appliances and electronic outlets is ideal, to ensure that no errant electric spark would set off your fireworks.

Can Fireworks Be Stored in a Hot Garage?

Yes, you can store your fireworks in a hot garage or hot car for a time, and they will not explode. That said, it is always preferable to store your fireworks in a cooler, temperature-controlled room.