Fire officials from across the DC region gathered today to deliver one clear message: fireworks are dangerous—leave them to the professionals. They shared safety warnings and legal reminders before conducting a live demonstration showing how fireworks can cause serious injuries and property damage.

Representing agencies from the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, fire chiefs and marshals joined together at a media briefing hosted at the Montgomery County Public Safety Training Academy. The event was organized by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) on behalf of the COG Fire Chiefs Committee, which supports coordination among fire departments across the region.

“Fireworks are dangerous. They cause fires, serious injuries, and put lives at risk,” said Montgomery County Fire Chief Corey Smedley. “Even sparklers burn at over 1,200 degrees.”

“Last year, illegal fireworks sparked a massive apartment fire in Southeast DC that left 76 people without homes,” DC Fire Marshal Edward Kauffman recalled a 2024 apartment fire caused by a roman candle that displaced residents. “If you had to leave D.C. to buy it, it’s most likely not legal here.”

Arlington Assistant Chief Jason Jenkins noted that a single fireworks incident last year caused over $250,000 in damage. Citing statistics from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, he noted that “nationwide, fireworks caused over 14,700 injuries and 11 deaths in 2024. These are not toys—they’re explosives.”

“All fireworks are illegal in Prince George’s County. That includes sparklers and snappers,” said Assistant Chief Aaron C. White. “Let’s enjoy the holiday the right way—attend a professional show and leave the fireworks to trained experts.”

Following the remarks, Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services conducted a live demo using mannequins, watermelons, and common fireworks to show their destructive force. 

MCFRS Live Demo

Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Services (10-75 Media/YouTube)