There’s nothing that says summer more than a pool party or backyard firework fun—but do they make a good pairing? Only if you follow some fireworks-and-pool safety guidelines.

To keep the good times rolling at your summer pool party, learn how to use fireworks around a pool to keep you, your guests, and your pool’s water safe this summer.

5 Summer Safety Tips for Fireworks Around Pools

It’s important to take precautions wherever you’re lighting fireworks. When lighting them near a pool, there are five extra steps to take into consideration:

1. Don’t swim when fireworks are being used. When fireworks are being used nearby, it’s best to be safe and aware of your surroundings. Fireworks can be unpredictable. If rogue debris comes your way, it’s best to be paying attention and to be able to move quickly. That means not being in the pool while the fireworks are being lit.

2. Keep a supply of water close by (that isn’t from your pool). If using small fireworks near your pool, keep a garden hose or bucket of water nearby. Pool water won’t be as easy to use as you might think to extinguish flames. Use a hose or bucket of water from the home instead. Relying on pool water also means you run the risk of contaminating it with firework debris. This is especially problematic because of the harmful chemicals which can be found in many fireworks.

3. Cover the pool when using fireworks. Some fireworks contain lead, and it’s best to avoid getting any firework debris in your pool that could contaminate the water. We recommend getting a pool cover for your pool. Not only will it help you avoid fireworks in the pool and keep unwanted debris out, but it will also increase the safety of your pool for children, pets, and everyone else.

Covering the pool is also a helpful way to protect children playing in your yard at night and to protect pets from falling in the pool if they get spooked and run from the sounds of fireworks.

4. When not using fireworks, store them in a cool, dry place away from the pool. Keep fireworks contained and away from humidity or potential splash zones before you’re ready to use them.

5. Maintain a safe distance. We recommend keeping fireworks that are being used 35 feet from any structures, your pool, and others, and at least 150 feet away when using aerial fireworks. This will help keep everyone safe.

If Fireworks Get Wet, Are They Ruined?

Yes. If your fireworks get wet—or get wet and dry out—they’re no longer usable. They might not light, and if they do, they might act in unpredictable ways. If fireworks come in contact with water, submerge them in a bucket of water overnight to ensure none of the contents can later catch a flame. After this, they can be safely disposed of.*

Firework Safety Matters

Whether you’re playing with sparklers, a small firecracker, or a bigger aerial firework, it’s important to put safety first. Make sure you keep firework use distant from your pool or any other materials that should avoid contamination, such as open food containers or your grill. It’s important to remember that fireworks contain flammable and sometimes toxic elements. We know you want your pool party to be a fun experience for everyone, and that’s why fireworks safety is especially important to make sure nothing accidentally goes awry.

Leave the Pool Party Cleanup to the Professionals

After your pool party, we’re sure your pool could use a good cleaning. From sparkler debris to spilled drinks and more, pool cleaning services from your local ASP—America’s Swimming Pool Company—will help remove germs and contaminants in your pool. For cleaning services from your local pool professionals, request a service online or call (866) 253-0455.

*Be sure to check your state’s fireworks laws and regulations before using or disposing of any fireworks.