Miami-Dade Department of Solid Waste Management offers safety tips for used fireworks disposal

As Independence Day quickly approaches, the Miami-Dade County Department of Solid Waste Management (DSWM) reminds residents that the safe disposal of fireworks and charcoal ash is essential to preventing injuries, property damage, and damage to waste carts.

Residents can utilize the following tips to ensure their holiday festivities are safe for all:

Fireworks Disposal

All fireworks, used and unused, should be completely submerged in a bucket of water for at least 2 hours and up to 24 hours prior to disposal. After the fireworks are saturated, they should be placed in a garbage bag and tied closed. The garbage bag with the saturated fireworks should then be placed in the green garbage cart for collection.

Charcoal Ash Disposal

Charcoal ash should be allowed to completely cool for 48 hours prior to disposal. Cooled ashes can be wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil and disposed of in the green garbage cart for collection.

By following these safety tips, residents can prevent personal injuries, fires due to improper disposal of fireworks and charcoal ash, and potential property damage.  DSWM customers who damage their waste carts because of improper fireworks or charcoal disposal may incur cart replacement fees.

For more information on fireworks safety, please visit the Miami-Dade County Fire Department’s Fireworks Safety Webpage.

For information on DSWM’s Independence Day Holiday collection, disposal, and facility schedule, please visit the Independence Day holiday schedule news release.