4th of July festivities flashy and fun with fireworks, but USPS reminds public they can’t be mailed

There might be a variety of state fireworks and firecracker laws throughout the nation and myriad types of the colorful pyrotechnics can be found for sale online each year just in time for the 4th of July.

But while they are a fun, flashy way to celebrate, the U.S. Postal Service reminds the public that there is one fireworks law consistent throughout all 50 states: You can’t mail them.

“Imagine the damage caused and the danger to postal employees by illegal fireworks accidentally being set off while in the mail or the disaster that could result from fireworks igniting in mail aboard an aircraft,” says U.S. Postal Inspector Eric. Manuel in a public service announcement on YouTube produced by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Fireworks of all kinds — including sparklers, firecrackers, bottle rockets and Roman candles — are considered hazardous materials and banned from all air and ground transportation through the U.S. Postal Service because they pose a safety threat.

“Shipping fireworks through the mail puts our employees, customers and transportation networks at serious risk,” said Acting U.S. Postmaster General and Chief Executive Officer Doug Tulino in the agency’s reminder. “Even small items like firecrackers or bottle rockets can cause fires, explosions or injuries if mishandled.”

The Postal Service uses a range of tools to keep its employees and facilities safe — including technology and inspection protocols — to detect nonmailable items.

People caught mailing fireworks can face civil penalties, criminal charges or other consequences.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service last year opened 1,700 investigations regarding customer attempts to send hazardous materials, including fireworks and other explosives, through the mail.

U.S. Postal Service encourages customers to review the list of hazardous and restricted items before shipping any package to ensure a safe and celebratory holiday.

A full list is available in “Publication 52 — Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail.”

“If it’s legal, enjoy the rockets red and bombs bursting in air. Just don’t send them in the mail,” Manuel says in the video.

Visit the U.S. Postal Inspection Service website for additional information.