MIAMI, Florida — With the Independence Day holiday quickly approaching, the Miami-Dade County Department of Solid Waste Management (DSWM) reminds residents that proper and safe disposal of fireworks and charcoal ash is essential to preventing injuries, property damage and damage to waste carts.
Residents can utilize the following tips to ensure that their holiday festivities are safe:
Fireworks Disposal
All fireworks, used and unused, should be completely submerged in a bucket of water for at least 2 hours and up to 24 hours prior to disposal. After the fireworks are saturated, they should be placed in a garbage bag that should be tied closed. The garbage bag with the saturated fireworks should then be placed in the green garbage cart for collection.
Charcoal Ash Disposal
Charcoal ash should be allowed to completely cool for 48 hours prior to disposal. Cooled ashes can be wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil and disposed of in the green garbage cart for collection.
By following these tips, residents can prevent potential injuries and property damage related to fires that can result from disposing of fireworks and charcoal ash improperly. DSWM customers who damage their waste carts because of improper fireworks or charcoal disposal may be assessed cart replacement fees.
