Have you ever attempted to ignite a firework only to be frustrated that the firework fails to launch? Dud fireworks are actually more common than you would think, and many people are unsure of how to handle a "dead" firework properly. The most important thing is to stay calm and take the correct safety measures to prevent injuries and keep your backyard celebration safe.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explain what causes dud fireworks, how to handle them, offer tips and tricks, and show how to best reduce the risk of firework misfires.

What is a "Dud" Firework

A dud firework is a firework that fails to ignite or only partially ignites after being lit. A dud can happen with many different types of fireworks, including:

• Cakes
• Artillery shells
• Fountains
• Other smaller novelty items

Some common causes for fireworks not to light could be:

• Windy or rainy weather
• Fuse issues
• Improper lighting techniques. 

Never Immediately Approach A Dud

If a firework does not ignite after lighting the fuse, your first instinct may be to walk over and check it out. However, this is one of the most serious mistakes to avoid with dud fireworks.

Certain fireworks can also experience delayed ignition and may take a few moments to a few minutes to ignite after being lit. Approaching these dead fireworks too early will cause a major increase in risk for a firework injury.

If a firework fails to ignite, you should:

• Wait at least 15 - 20 minutes before approaching
• Stay back and keep a safe distance
• Keep all children and spectators away from the area

How to Safely Handle the Fireworks

After waiting the proper amount of time, you can begin to carefully approach your dead firework with caution. Follow these steps to safely handle and dispose of your dead fireworks:

1. Do not try to repeatedly relight your dud firework
2. Soak your firework thoroughly and completely in water
3. Leave your submerged firework for several hours
4. Place your wet firework into either a metal bucket or a safe disposal container

What Not to Do With Malfunctioning Fireworks

These are some common mistakes that you need to avoid next time you are dealing with a dead firework:

• Do not relight immediately because the fireworks could go off unexpectedly
• Avoid holding malfunctioning fireworks and handle them from a safe distance
• Do not throw duds into an area with fire or anything highly flamable
• Do not allow children to handle or come near the area
• Do not attempt to "fix" or modify failed fireworks

6 Tips to Reduce Misfires

Misfires are not always preventable, but you can heavily reduce the chances of a misfire by following these best practices:

1. Buy from reputable retailers and only use high-quality, trustworthy fireworks
2. Store fireworks properly in a cool, dry place until it is time to set them off
3. Always keep your fireworks dry 
4. Follow the proper lighting instructions and guidelines on the packaging carefully 
5. Launch your fireworks from an even and stable surface
6. Light your fireworks individually, going carefully one at a time

More on general firework safety tips

Quick Backyard Safety Checklist

Stay safe this summer and make sure you follow these 6 tips to have a fun and safe fireworks season:

1. Keep a reliable water source nearby at all times
2. Use a punk or torch to light your fireworks to avoid getting too close
3. Always maintain safe distances from the blast zone
4. Never point fireworks toward other people or yourself
5. Keep all children under careful parental supervision
6. Follow all of your local firework laws in your state

For more information on firework safety, visit our website

Final Thoughts

Fireworks are meant to be fun, but the last thing you want this summer is for somebody to get hurt during your show. If a firework does not go off, remember to stay patient, keep your distance, and wait before approaching .Knowing what to do if a firework doesn't go off is one of the simplest ways to keep your backyard show safe and stress-free. Follow these tips and tricks to have amazing and safe shows this holiday season!

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