The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) regulations lowering the permissible charge in firecrackers become effective today, December 6.
In addition to a reduction of the charge in firecrackers, the new regulations provide performance specifications and labeling requirements for common fireworks devices including a requirement that fuses burn at least three seconds but no longer than six seconds.
Under a March 4, 1976, decision, firecrackers offered for sale to consumers are prohibited from containing more than 50 milligrams of powder. Previously, the limitation under Federal regulations was 130 milligrams of powder.
The regulations apply to firecrackers and fireworks sold or distributed for consumer use. The regulations have no effect on state bans of firecrackers and generally have no effect on fireworks used for organized public displays.
Persons distributing fireworks in violation of the regulations are subject to criminal penalties.
The Commission will monitor injury data associated with fireworks to determine the effectiveness of its regulation, which is intended to reduce the risk of injuries. Most fireworks and firecracker injuries occur during the Fourth of July season.
About the U.S. CPSC
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products has contributed to a decline in the rate of injuries associated with consumer products over the past 50 years.
Federal law prohibits any person from selling products subject to a Commission ordered recall or a voluntary recall undertaken in consultation with the CPSC.
For lifesaving information:
- Visit CPSC.gov.
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- Report a dangerous product or a product-related injury on www.SaferProducts.gov.
- Call CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 301-595-7054).
- Contact a media specialist.
Please use the below phone number for all media requests.
Phone: (301) 504-7908
Spanish: (301) 504-7800