JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As the final hours of 2025 tick away and families gear up to ring in the New Year, many plan to illuminate their celebrations with fireworks at home. Although these vibrant displays add a touch of magic to the festivities, safety officials stress that this year’s dry conditions call for greater caution, especially in the First Coast region.

With the area experiencing unusually arid weather, the location of your fireworks display is crucial. Chris Naff, the spokesperson for St. Johns County Fire Rescue, highlights that a single errant spark could swiftly escalate from a festive night to a hazardous situation.

“Exercise caution when setting off fireworks near brush, woods, or trees, and ensure they are used in a secure environment,” advised Naff.

Fireworks vendors in the Jacksonville vicinity have seen a surge in activity since the post-Christmas period. At Southern Fireworks, sales associate Lucas Laman noted a steady stream of customers on Wednesday, all eager to stock up for their New Year’s Eve celebrations.

“We’ve been seeing quite a few sales, and today, we’re seeing almost constantly trickling in of customers coming in and out of the store,” Laman told First Coast News.

But along with those purchases comes a need for responsibility. Laman says every customer receives a safety disclaimer sheet outlining proper use, and stores post clear signage to help educate buyers. The goal, he says, is to ensure everyone enjoys a fun — but safe — night.

“I always try to keep a fire extinguisher on me just in case worst comes to worst,” Laman said.

Local fire officials echo that message. Naff says emergency crews see a noticeable spike in calls around New Year’s, often tied to improper disposal of fireworks. One of the most common mistakes? Tossing used fireworks straight into trash cans.

“We see a lot of people throwing them in their trash cans, and their trash cans catch on fire. And if the trash can is up against the house, they do tend to extend into the house and into the attic area,” said Naff. 

Naff warns that fireworks can remain hot long after they go off.  His advice: once fireworks are spent, hose them down thoroughly before disposing of them, and always keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

Fireworks can be a memorable way to welcome the New Year — but safety comes first. If something does go wrong, don’t hesitate to call 911.