Quintana Roo Civil Protection Warns Against Fireworks Ahead of Independence Day

Quintana Roo — State civil protection officials are urging residents to stay away from fireworks during this year’s Independence Day celebrations, warning that the explosives remain illegal across much of Mexico and carry steep penalties.

The Fiestas Patrias, centered on the Grito de Independencia on September 15, are among the dates when fireworks use spikes in Mexico, including in Quintana Roo. But after a string of fireworks accidents elsewhere in the country went viral on social media in recent weeks, the state’s Civil Protection agency asked the public to refrain from using them.

The most recent major incident in Quintana Roo occurred in 2022, when a fire station caught fire while storing confiscated fireworks.

Armed Forces to Seize Pyrotechnics

Guillermo Núñez Leal, director of the State Civil Protection Coordination, said reports of fireworks use will be handled by the Armed Forces, which will confiscate the materials and turn them over to the National Guard.

Fines and Prison Time

Quintana Roo imposes administrative and financial penalties for the use, storage or illegal sale of fireworks ranging from 3,260 pesos to 250,000 pesos, along with possible arrests and prison sentences if the devices cause damage or accidents.

Cases considered serious include starting fires or causing injuries or significant harm to third parties. Those responsible could face charges carrying prison terms of up to eight years for fireworks use during the 2026 Fiestas Patrias.

Health and Environmental Risks

Officials outlined the main dangers posed by pyrotechnics:

• Physical injuries: Second- and third-degree burns, loss of fingers or hands, and eye or hearing damage.
• Vulnerable populations: Children are most at risk when handling firecrackers without adult supervision.
• Fires: Improper storage or use increases the risk of fires in homes, grasslands or vehicles.
• Harm to animals: Loud noise causes tachycardia, extreme stress, disorientation and hearing loss in pets and wildlife.
• Pollution: Detonations release toxic substances and particles that degrade air quality.

Residents who spot fireworks being used in their neighborhood can report it anonymously by calling 089, the tip line of the Quintana Roo Public Security Department. Officials said they will respond to the location provided to confiscate the products.