Cold Weather, Hot Shows: How to Use Fireworks Safely in Winter

New Year’s Eve is one of the most popular nights of the year for fireworks, and for good reason. There’s no better way to ring in a brand new year than with a spectacular show lighting up the midnight sky. 

But while fireworks bring the excitement, winter weather can bring a few extra challenges.

At Jerry Pelfrey Fireworks, we want your celebration to be dazzling and safe. Whether you’re lighting fireworks in the backyard, at a family cabin, or during a snowy outdoor event, this guide will help you navigate the key considerations of cold-weather firework displays.

Fireworks and Winter Safety: What Changes in Cold Weather?

While the basic principles of firework safety stay the same year-round, winter introduces a few environmental factors that are worth planning for:

• Frozen or damp ground can affect firework stability and ignition.

• Cold hands can make it harder to handle and light fireworks safely.

• Early darkness increases visibility, but also limits setup time.

• Snow and ice may interfere with fuse lighting or create slip hazards.

Understanding how to prep for these conditions will help you avoid common mishaps and get the most from your show.

Tip 1: Store Fireworks in a Warm, Dry Space Before Use

Fireworks are sensitive to moisture and temperature extremes. If they’ve been sitting in your cold garage or exposed to damp conditions, they may not perform correctly, or at all.

Here’s how to store them safely before your event:

• Keep fireworks in their original packaging to protect fuses.

• Store them in a climate-controlled space, like a hallway closet or indoor utility room.

• Transport them in a sealed bin or container to avoid moisture exposure before lighting.

Avoid: Leaving them in the car overnight or setting them outside during setup unless you’re ready to use them right away.

Tip 2: Prep Your Launch Area in Advance

Snowy or frozen ground can make firework placement more difficult. 

You’ll want to make sure your launch site is level, dry, and stable:

• Use plywood sheets or flat boards on top of snow to provide a secure base.

• For aerial repeaters or cakes, anchor them with bricks or sandbags on either side to prevent tipping.

• Avoid setting fireworks directly into snow, as it can smother the base and affect launch.

• Clear a dry path for the person lighting the fireworks so they can safely approach and retreat.

If you're using Roman candles or ground spinners, make sure they’re placed upright in tubes or containers that won’t tip on icy surfaces.

Tip 3: Dress for Safety and Function

Cold-weather clothing can help protect you from sparks and minor burns, but bulky gloves and jackets can also make it harder to handle fuses precisely.

• Choose tight-fitting gloves that still allow dexterity (e.g., thin insulated work gloves).

• Wear a non-flammable jacket or long sleeves to shield your arms.

• Keep scarves and loose accessories tucked in. You don’t want anything dangling near ignition points.

And of course, make sure your footwear is slip-resistant. Wet or icy launch zones are no place for slick soles.

Tip 4: Adjust Your Show Timing

One advantage of winter firework shows? It gets dark earlier! That means you can start your celebration around 7–8 PM if you’re including kids, or plan a more elaborate show timed to midnight for your countdown celebration.

• Start with sparklers or fountains as a “warm-up” leading into the main event.

• Plan for a shorter show. Cold weather can make long outdoor stints less comfortable.

• Consider splitting your show into two segments: one early display and one grand finale at midnight.

Bonus: The cold air often makes colors appear sharper and sound travel farther, giving your show more impact with fewer shells!

Tip 5: Use the Right Fireworks for the Season

Not all fireworks are ideal for cold-weather launches. Stick to products that ignite reliably and don’t require intricate setup.

Recommended for winter:

• Fountains with strong ignition, even in cooler temps

• Multi-shot aerial cakes that offer big effects with minimal setup

• Color-themed fireworks in silver, gold, and white to match the NYE vibe

• Sparklers and glow items for family fun before midnight

Ask our team for low-noise or pet-friendly options if you’re in a residential area, or opt for quieter ground-based effects to reduce neighborhood disturbance.

Make It a Midnight to Remember

With the right preparation, your New Year’s Eve fireworks can be the highlight of the night, no matter how cold it gets. 

Whether you're hosting a small gathering or a full backyard bash, a well-planned winter firework display brings energy, joy, and just the right touch of drama to the countdown.

At Jerry Pelfrey Fireworks, we’re here to help you choose the best cold-weather products, provide setup advice, and ensure your show goes off safely and spectacularly.

Call us at 606-367-5569 to get New Year’s ready, before the rush hits.