The Ultimate Guide to At-Home Firework Displays: Part Two - Fireworks Storage: Keep Them Safe Before the Big Bang

 We all know that fireworks are exciting, but they’re not your average bit of kit to stash in the garage. Storing fireworks safely means giving them the respect they deserve – and knowing exactly where (and how) to keep them out of harm’s way until showtime.

Follow these straightforward storage tips, and your fireworks will stay ready to perform without any drama.

Choose the Right Spot: Cool, Dry, and Secure

Fireworks need a cool, dry, and secure space. This isn’t about a preference for the finer things in life—it’s a must. Moisture, temperature, and proximity to flammable items can turn your fireworks from thrilling to dangerous in a snap. Here’s how to get it right:

• Avoid Damp and Humid Places: Damp is the enemy of fireworks, so skip the under-the-sink cupboard or garden shed if it’s prone to leaks. Moisture not only weakens fireworks but can make them more likely to fizzle or malfunction.
• Opt for a Cool Area: Fireworks should stay away from anything resembling a heat source. This means no airing cupboards, boiler rooms, or sun-baked conservatories.
• Ventilate When Possible: If you can store them in a place with decent airflow—like a dry garage or secure storage cupboard—do it. A bit of ventilation keeps things fresh and prevents any build-up of fumes.
  
  

Keep Them Out of Reach: Childproof and Pet-proof

Fireworks and curious hands (or paws) don’t mix. Even when fireworks are not live, they’re still packed with chemicals that can be dangerous if tampered with. Lock your storage area, or choose a high-up, out-of-sight location if a locked option isn’t available. And if you’ve got particularly persistent pets, it might be worth adding a secondary layer, like a childproof latch, to the door.

• Lock It Up: A secure, locked container or storage cupboard is best. If you have young children, they’ll be safer kept somewhere they can’t reach.
• Out of Sight, Out of Mind: Make your firework storage location less obvious—no point in sparking any interest! This goes double if you’ve got older kids who might want a sneak peek.

Store in a Fireproof Container (If You Can)

If you’ve got one, a fireproof storage container adds that extra layer of safety. But even a standard plastic container with a secure lid works in a pinch. Just avoid cardboard boxes, which can tear, absorb moisture, and won’t stand up to any heat. Here are some ideas:

• Metal or Plastic Containers: Strong, sealed metal containers are best, but a heavy-duty plastic container with a lid will also keep things dry and contained.
• Avoid Cardboard: Cardboard gets damp, doesn’t protect from fire, and can even encourage mould. Stick to containers that won’t buckle or degrade over time.

Firework Storage by Type: Keeping It Organised

Believe it or not, certain firework types are best stored separately. Sparklers, for instance, burn at extremely high temperatures and should be kept separate from fountains, rockets, and barrages, just in case. Keep your storage straightforward by following these tips:

• Group by Type, Not Size: Storing sparklers away from other fireworks is wise since they burn hotter than most. For other types, simply make sure each is neatly stacked or arranged so nothing is crowded or at risk of toppling.
• Avoid Stacking: Overloading containers or shoving too many fireworks in one place isn’t ideal. Keep them spaced out and stored securely in a single layer if possible.

Final Safety Checks: Is Your Storage Good to Go?

Here are a few final checks to make sure your storage is spot-on and you’re ready to go:

• Check for Any Open Flames Nearby: Sounds obvious, but it’s worth double-checking. Fireworks and any form of flame don’t mix, so avoid keeping matches, lighters, or heaters near your stash.
• Inspect Regularly: Especially if stored for more than a few days, check occasionally to make sure the area stays cool, dry, and undisturbed.
• Know the Local Rules: Most councils allow storing consumer fireworks for personal use, but some have limits on how much you can keep at once. If you’re not sure, check with local council guidelines for peace of mind.

Shop With The UK's Leading Firework Retailer

Here at Epic Fireworks, we’re your go-to for everything you need to put on an awesome fireworks display. Whether it’s for Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, Diwali, or any special occasion, we’ve got you covered with the biggest range of the UK's most powerful consumer fireworks, from sparklers and fountains to show-stopping barrages and rockets.

Looking for something easy but still impressive? Our DIY firework display packs come with everything you need to create a stunning show, with easy-to-follow instructions to help you fire like a pro. Plus, our fireworks are up to 5 times more powerful than supermarket fireworks so you'll be getting more bang for your buck, literally!

Shop our full range of fireworks today

Part Three - Rockets, Everything You Need To Know

Yesterday, in Part One of this series, we covered Buying Fireworks in the UK: How to Shop Smart and Safe. Stay tuned for tomorrow as we'll be continuing the Ultimate Guide to At-Home Firework Displays with a focus on rockets. Sharing everything you need to know about this classic firework including the different types, as well as practical and creative ways to add them to your at-home display.