Miami-Dade Solid Waste Management's Independence Day used fireworks and charcoal disposal safety tips

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

Residents can utilize the following tips to ensure that their holiday festivities end safely:

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 that should be tied closed. The garbage bag with the saturated fireworks should then be placed in residents’ garbage cart for collection.

Charcoal Ash Disposal

Charcoal ash should be allowed to completely cool for 48 hours prior to disposal. Once the ashes are completely cooled, they can be wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil and disposed of in a garbage cart for collection.

By following these tips residents can prevent potential injuries and property damage related to fires that can result from disposing of fireworks and charcoal ash improperly. Additionally, DSWM customers who cause damage to their carts as a result of improperly disposing of fireworks or charcoal ash can be subject to 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 https://www.miamidade.gov/releases/2020-06-29-solid-waste-independence-day-schedule.asp.