NASFM Guidance Document: Fire Inspections and Consumer Fireworks 

The National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM) has released a new Guidance Document Regarding Fire Inspections and Consumer Fireworks, introduced by NASFM Chief Operating Officer, Philip Oakes.

The regulatory landscape for consumer fireworks retail locations across the United States is often complex and inconsistent. A range of codes, standards, and local ordinances influence how retail locations are designed, inspected, and operated, and in some jurisdictions, enforcement may still rely on longstanding legacy regulations.

To help address these challenges, NASFM developed this new guidance document as a practical resource for authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) and inspectors. The document builds on prior collaboration with FM Global, including large-scale fire testing conducted in 2019 that evaluated fire protection practices outlined in NFPA 1124, such as storage heights, aisle widths, shelving configurations, and flame break spacing.

Created with input from regulators, emergency responders, and industry representatives, including APA, the document offers non-regulatory guidance to support more consistent inspection practices and promote safe retail environments for consumer fireworks. While it is not intended to serve as an enforceable code or standard, it provides valuable insights to assist in evaluating retail operations.

APA appreciates the collaboration and technical expertise contributed by NASFM, industry partners, and public safety officials in developing this important resource. We encourage APA members to review and utilize the guidance, and to share it with local enforcement officials. As a living document, NASFM welcomes feedback and will continue to refine and update the guidance as needed.

Download the complete guidance document here.

February 2026

APSEF Proximate Pyrotechnics Safety Video Series

The American Pyrotechnics Safety and Education Foundation (APSEF), in partnership with the American Pyrotechnics Association (APA), is proud to launch a new video series on the safe use of proximate pyrotechnics. As the industry grows and more events incorporate these effects, proper training, planning, and compliance are more important than ever. This six-part series highlights the factors behind recent incidents and provides practical guidance to help companies, operators, and Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) use proximate pyrotechnics safely, responsibly, and in accordance with industry standards. 

Click here to view the series of six videos!

February 2026

Clarification on the Sale & Use of Articles Pyrotechnic 

The American Pyrotechnics Association (APA) Standard 87-1C, incorporated by reference in 49 CFR §171.7, governs the construction, classification, approval, and transportation of entertainment and technical pyrotechnics. Products approved under this standard are not regulated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. UN0431 1.4G, UN0432 1.4S, and UN0336 1.4G “Professional Use Only” articles may be used only by qualified operators in compliance with NFPA 1123/1126 or applicable state and local laws, and may not be sold, distributed, or used by consumers.

Learn more:

Clarification on Sale and Use of Articles Pyrotechnic
Clarification on the use of Pyrotechnic Simulation Equipment "Cold Spark Machines"

November 2022

APA Proximate Pryotechnics Training Program

Click here to view the checklists that contain safety information associated with the presentation of an indoor or “proximate” pyrotechnics event.

Emergency Response for Consumer Fireworks
Emergency Response for Display Fireworks

A fire or explosion can have serious consequences at a fireworks manufacturing plant or warehouse, or if a vehicle transporting fireworks is involved in an accident. Therefore, knowledge of the appropriate emergency action to be taken by the fire service or emergency response personnel in the event of an incident is critical. 

In the event of fire or explosion at a fireworks manufacturing plant, all employees are instructed to immediately evacuate the site.

Fire service and emergency responders should never attempt to fight a fire that has reached buildings used for manufacturing.

Consumer fireworks (1.4G) contain limited amounts of powder per item. A fire involving sealedshipping cartons of consumer fireworks will burn for an extended time, as the fire spreads through the unburned cartons. Individual items will ignite and burn, and the fire may get quite intense, but large-scale testing by the government and the fireworks industry has shown that there should not be a mass explosion.

In the event of a fire involving consumer fireworks, the fire service or emergency responders should direct their efforts primarily to preventing the spread of the fire, although a fire involving only consumer fireworks can normally be extinguished by water deluge, if necessary. Keep all non-emergency personnel away from the fire area.

As with any fire, avoid breathing the smoke from a fireworks fire. The smoke, however, should not pose an unusual health hazard.
When display fireworks or aerial shells (1.3G) are involved in a fire situation, it is very serious and could result in a mass explosion. Fire service and emergency responders must evacuate the plant and/or warehouse and surrounding area immediately.
Never attempt to fight a fire involving display fireworks.

For additional information, refer to Emergency Response Sheets for Consumer and Display Fireworks.