Fireworks that fly or explode are illegal in Illinois except for people who are licensed to handle them. But some people take chances every year. Ottawa Fire Department Public Education Coordinator Kevin Theis (TYS) says leave those things to the pros.
But if you ignore that advice, never light a bottle rocket, Roman candle, or other pyrotechnic in your hand. If it doesn’t light up and you think it’s a dud, leave it alone for 15 minutes. Then put it in a bucket of water for 20 minutes more before throwing it away.
Even legal fireworks are dangerous. Theis says sparklers burn at more than 1,200 degrees. If children are going to handle them, they should be under close adult supervision.