Fireworks are a patriotic staple in Fourth of July celebrations, but they’re cause for concern. You’re causing a giant flammable object to explode for sheer joy. After a full day celebrating in the sun, potentially even a few beers, and what could possibly go wrong?
Between the safety hazards and the toxicity to the air, it’s no wonder many states have outlawed the selling and distribution of these colorful fire-sticks.
That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Ditch the fireworks and try one of these safer, colorful alternatives instead.
Uncle Milton’s fireworks light show projector is like a Nerf gun, but instead of darts, it releases dazzling fireworks on your ceiling. At the squeeze of a trigger, it sounds off crackling fireworks sounds. Price on Amazon: $21.41
This mini projector is about the size of a smartphone but is one of the best projectors you can buy for well under $100. You can use it to watch fireworks shows (Disney’s are particularly magical), and then get plenty of mileage out of it for movie nights the rest of the year.
If the projectile light is your favorite part of fireworks, replace the flying embers with LED. These Galaxy Shooters are glow-in-the-dark rockets that slingshot into the sky. It’s just as fun as running for your life from a freshly lit fuse.
Yes, Amazon really does sell everything. Good old-fashioned sparklers are less dangerous than most fireworks, but that doesn’t mean they can’t do harm. More importantly some states consider these illegal, so check your local laws here before lighting up.
Marisa Losciale specializes in NSFW culture, audio gear, and photography. A former editorial and photo director for Spoon University at SUNY New Paltz, her work has been featured in the Rockwell Center for American Visual Studies, Post-Trash, the New Paltz Oracle, and the Legislative Gazette.
