It’s time not only to celebrate a new year - and in this case a new decade - but it’s also a time when certain types of fireworks can be legally bought and used.
Assistant State Fire Marshal Michael Chionchio explains what’s OK to set off for the new year.
"A lot of confusion about firecrackers or bottle rockets. Those are illegal all year round," said Chionchio. "The only thing that's legal on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day are sparklers and things that are on the ground, your snapping pops, or your smoke bombs, things like that"
And it’s best to use whatever is purchased, because come January 2nd, possession of those materials is illegal.
Chionchio says if people have leftovers, there are ways to get rid of them.
"[They] should take it back to the retailer which they purchased it from, or contact the Delaware Solid Waste Authority, they handle hazardous materials," said Chionchio.
Chionchio adds the rules are there to avoid people getting hurt or worse.
"We are more concerned about people being burned and dying than we are putting people in jail," said Chionchio. "Our concern is for the younger children for the intoxicated adult setting themselves on fire, setting their neighbor's house on fire, things such as that. That's what we fear."
Chionchio and the State Fire Marshal’s Office remind everyone to leave the fireworks to the professionals.
