The American Pyrotechnics Safety and Education Foundation (APSEF) has announced the expansion of the Bucket Brigade, a fire prevention initiative designed to reduce fires caused by improper fireworks disposal following Fourth of July celebrations.
As the United States prepares to mark its 250th anniversary, fire service leaders are anticipating increased participation in holiday celebrations, including a rise in first-time fireworks users. At the same time, many regions are experiencing drier than average conditions, increasing the risk of preventable fires.
The Bucket Brigade addresses a key source of those incidents.
The program encourages residents to soak used fireworks in a bucket of water overnight before disposal, a simple step that significantly reduces the risk of ignition in trash, vegetation, and surrounding structures.
Brandon Corn, President of the American Pyrotechnics Safety and Education Foundation said: “This is a practical, community-driven approach that helps departments reduce preventable fires while engaging residents in a simple safety step.
“We are committed to supporting fire service leaders in bringing this program to their communities.”
According to APSEF, the program has demonstrated measurable results including:
In Castle Rock, Colorado, officials reported zero fireworks-related calls tied to personal use during the 2025 season after implementing the program.
A Fire and Life Safety Educator involved in the program commented: “During the 2025 season, from when fireworks stands opened through the Fourth of July, we saw zero fireworks-related calls tied to personal fireworks use.
“One of the big differences was that we rolled out the Bucket Brigade.
“We believe that rolling out the Bucket Brigade contributed in a large way to this result,” they concluded.
The initiative has now expanded into eight additional states and continues to grow as jurisdictions prepare for the upcoming holiday.
The Foundation said that it is supporting participating departments with a turnkey implementation package that includes a step-by-step playbook, communications materials and assistance identifying local partners to source buckets.
Common partners include hardware stores, restaurants and community businesses willing to donate or repurpose containers.
The program also provides an opportunity for community engagement, including partnerships with local schools and youth organizations to support distribution efforts and reinforce fire safety education.
