GS Fireworks Recalls Fireworks Due to Violation of Federal Standards; Explosion and Burn Hazards; Sold Exclusively at GS Fireworks

What was recalled

In June of 2019, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving consumer fireworks manufactured and distributed by GS Fireworks. This action was taken because these specific products violated federal safety standards designed to keep consumers safe during recreational use. The scope of this recall is quite broad, encompassing 26 distinct types of fireworks. These items were not sold through general retail chains or online marketplaces; instead, they were sold exclusively at GS Fireworks locations. This detail is important for anyone trying to determine if their purchase falls under this specific advisory, as the point of sale helps narrow down which batches might be affected.

The products involved are primarily high-impact fireworks intended to create loud, audible effects. The recall list includes a variety of item types, ranging from single-shot salutes and canister shells to large multi-shot cakes. For example, the recall covers "Universal 1.25" Artillery Shells" (Item Number W5016(B)) and "Clown Cock Rises Canister Shells" (Item Number FF5001). It also includes larger display items such as the "Universal Born Hero 25 Shot Cake" (BHL2325), the "Sin City Burning Aces 25 Shot Cake" (SC5G-1501), and several large-scale cakes like the "Hairy Beaver Crazy Labbits 36 Shot Cake" (HB2015) and the "Yeti Shrooms 100 Shot Cake" (YT5026). The list also features numerous other branded items, including products from the "Clown" series such as "Clown Cock-a-doodle-doo," "Clown Dead Heat," and "Clown Tsunami Alert," as well as items under the "Universal" brand like "Godzilla Roars" and "Monkey Planet."

Identifying the exact products requires looking closely at the packaging. The brand name, product name, and item number are printed directly on the outside wrapping of each firework. This is your primary method for verification. For instance, you might find "Yeti Sky Jam 96 Shot Cake" with item number YT5026, or "Sun Rise Crackers" with item number W010. Some items in the list do not have a listed item number, such as "The Closer 100 Shot Cake" or "Thunder King Single Shot Salutes," so you will need to rely on the product name and brand. The recall was officially dated June 26, 2019, meaning these products were distributed prior to that date. If you have any of these specific items in your possession, it is crucial to recognize them by their names and codes to ensure you do not use them.

The decision to recall these 26 different models stems from a fundamental safety violation. The fireworks were found to be overloaded with pyrotechnic material beyond what is legally permitted for this category of consumer product. While the intent was likely to create a more impressive or louder show, this overload directly contradicts federal regulatory standards. These standards exist to ensure that the power and effect of a firework remain within predictable and safe limits for the average user. By exceeding these limits, GS Fireworks inadvertently created products that were inherently unstable and more dangerous than intended. This is why the CPSC stepped in to mandate the recall, ensuring that no further units of these specific overloaded items could be sold or used by the public.

• Brand: GS Fireworks
• Total Products Recalled: 26 different consumer fireworks
• Sales Channel: Exclusively at GS Fireworks
• Recall Date: June 26, 2019
• Key Identifiers: Brand name, product name, and item number on outer wrapping

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look at how consumer fireworks are designed to function under normal circumstances. The specific issue with the GS Fireworks products identified in this CPSC recall centers on a fundamental violation of federal safety standards: the devices have been overloaded with pyrotechnic composition. In simple terms, these shells and cakes contain more explosive material than they are legally permitted to hold for their classification. While standard consumer fireworks are engineered to produce a controlled burst of light and sound, these particular items were packed with an excessive amount of black powder or other propellants intended to create a louder, more impressive audible effect.

When a firework is overloaded, the internal pressure dynamics change drastically. As the fuse burns down and ignites the main charge, the rapid expansion of gases occurs much faster and with greater force than the casing was designed to contain or direct. Instead of a predictable, outward-facing explosion that dissipates energy safely into the air, the device may experience an over-pressurization event. This can lead to two primary failure modes: catastrophic shell failure or uncontrolled fragmentation. The outer paper or plastic wrapper, which is meant to tear open neatly to allow the stars and effects to fly, may shatter violently rather than peel back. This turns the packaging itself into dangerous shrapnel.

The physical harm resulting from this mechanical failure typically manifests in two ways: blast trauma and thermal injury. First, the "greater than expected explosion" mentioned in the official report means that the shockwave generated is stronger than what a consumer would instinctively brace for. This can cause temporary or permanent hearing damage, especially if the user is standing close to the ignition point. Second, the burn hazards arise from both the unintended projection of burning debris and the increased intensity of the flame ball. Because the combustion is more energetic, hot gases and unburned powder particles can be ejected with higher velocity and over a wider, less predictable radius. This significantly increases the risk of igniting clothing or causing second-degree burns to exposed skin, particularly on hands and arms which are often held close during lighting.

It is important to note that while the official recall documents state that no incidents have been reported at this time, the potential for injury is inherent in the design flaw. The hazard is not about whether a specific unit will fail—many overloaded fireworks may still "work" in the sense that they explode—but rather that the margin for error is eliminated. A standard firework might have a small defect that causes it to misfire without causing harm; an overloaded firework has less tolerance for manufacturing variances and environmental factors, making any deviation from the expected path potentially dangerous. The violation of federal standards means these products were never tested or certified to ensure they would contain their explosive energy safely within the designated parameters.

Who is most at risk

The primary group facing immediate danger in this recall consists of anyone who purchased these specific fireworks from GS Fireworks. Because the products were sold exclusively through this retailer, the risk is concentrated among a specific community of consumers rather than the general public. These individuals likely bought items such as the Universal 1.25" Artillery Shells, the Sin City Burning Aces 25 Shot Cake, or the Hairy Beaver Crazy Labbits 36 Shot Cake, intending to host a celebration or enjoy a display. The danger is not limited to professional pyrotechnicians; it extends to homeowners, party planners, and casual users who may have assumed that all commercially available fireworks met strict federal safety standards. Since these products were overloaded with pyrotechnics to create a louder, more dramatic audible effect, anyone who ignites them is exposing themselves to an explosion larger than what the packaging or product name suggests.

Within this group of users, children and young adults are particularly vulnerable to severe injury. Fireworks displays often attract families and groups of friends, creating an environment where bystanders may stand too close for a better view. When a shell is overloaded with propellant or bursting charge, the blast radius expands unpredictably. A child standing ten feet away might be safe from a standard firework but could suffer serious burns or hearing damage from an overloaded unit that detonates with excessive force. Furthermore, younger individuals are more likely to handle these devices without adequate caution, potentially misjudging the distance required for safety or attempting to relight "duds" that continue to burn unexpectedly due to the unstable chemical composition.

Elderly individuals and those with pre-existing health conditions also face heightened risks. The recalled items, such as the Universal Godzilla Roars 36 Shot Cake or the Yeti Sky Jam 96 Shot Cake, are designed to produce intense noise. An overloaded explosion can generate sound levels that exceed safe thresholds instantly, posing a severe risk of permanent hearing loss or acoustic trauma, especially for those with sensitive ears or existing auditory issues. Additionally, the shockwave from an unexpected explosion can be physically jarring, potentially causing falls or aggravating cardiovascular conditions in older adults who may be startled by the sudden, violent discharge.

Finally, the risk is amplified for anyone attempting to use these fireworks in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces, such as garages, patios with low ceilings, or near flammable structures like wooden decks or dry landscaping. The "explosion and burn hazards" noted by the CPSC mean that burning embers and shrapnel can travel further and with greater velocity than intended. This makes the location of use just as critical as the age or health of the user. Anyone planning to light these items must recognize that the standard safety margins they might rely on do not apply here, making every spectator in the vicinity a potential victim of the product's failure to meet federal regulatory standards.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action, you need to be absolutely certain that the fireworks in your possession are part of this specific recall. GS Fireworks has issued a recall affecting 26 distinct consumer firework products, so simply knowing the brand name is not enough. You must examine the physical packaging of each item carefully. The most critical information is printed directly on the outside wrapping of the firework box or container. This label acts as your primary source of truth, providing the specific details needed to cross-reference against the recall list.

To identify a recalled unit, look for three key pieces of data on the label: the Brand Name, the Product Name, and the Item Number. The brand should clearly state "GS Fireworks" or "Universal" (as many items are labeled under the Universal sub-brand). Next, locate the specific product name, such as "Artillery Shells," "Blast From The Past," or "Godzilla Roars." Finally, find the unique Item Number, which is often a combination of letters and numbers like W5016(B) or UN5088. It is important to note that for some items in this recall, no specific product name or item number is listed on the packaging. In these cases, you must rely on the distinctive product names provided in the official list, such as "Clown Cock-a-doodle-doo" or "Hairy Beaver Crazy Labbits."

If you are unsure whether your item matches one of the 26 recalled products, do not guess. The recall applies to fireworks sold exclusively at GS Fireworks locations or through their direct channels. If you purchased these items from a general retailer, a gas station, or an online marketplace other than GS Fireworks, they are likely not part of this specific recall, though it is always wise to check with the seller. However, if you bought them directly from GS Fireworks and the packaging matches any of the descriptions below, you should treat them as recalled immediately.

To help you verify your items quickly, here is the complete list of the 26 recalled products. Please compare the name and item number on your package against this list:

• Universal 1.25" Artillery Shells (Item Number: W5016(B))
• Universal Blast From The Past (Item Number: UN5088)
• Universal Born Hero 25 Shot Cake (Item Number: BHL2325)
• Sin City Burning Aces 25 Shot Cake (Item Number: SC5G-1501)
• The Closer 100 Shot Cake (No Item Number Listed)
• Clown Shells (Item Number: W515B)
• Clown Cock Rises Canister Shells (Item Number: FF5001)
• Clown Cock-a-doodle-doo 25 Shot Cake (Item Number: 8299)
• Hairy Beaver Crazy Labbits 36 Shot Cake (Item Number: HB2015)
• Clown Dead Heat 100 Shot Cake (Item Number: BHL999TS)
• Hairy Beaver Defenders 49 Shot Cake (Item Number: BHL999T2)
• Universal Don't Panic Canister Shells (Item Number: BHL5135)
• Universal Godzilla Roars 36 Shot Cake (Item Number: UN2566)
• Horror Night Ball Shells W5007 (B) (No Product Name Listed)
• Clown IT Canister Shells (Item Number: DP5135)
• Magical Roman Candle WW2901(A-D) (No Product Name Listed)
• Universal Monkey Planet 100 Shot Cake (Item Number: UN2102)
• Rising Silver - Flowers in Spring 25 Shot Cake (Item Number: W2825)
• Yeti Shrooms 100 Shot Cake (Item Number: YT5026)
• Yeti Sky Jam 96 Shot Cake (Item Number: YT5026)
• Hairy Beaver Spider 25 Shot Cake (Item Number: HB2002)
• Sun Rise Crackers W010 (No Product Name Listed)
• Thunder King Single Shot Salutes (No Item Number Listed)
• Tommy Gun Single Shot Salute WG2018S (No Product Name Listed)
• Clown Top Notch Fireworks 64 Shot Cake (Item Number: BHL2064)
• Clown Tsunami Alert 100 Shot Cake (Item Number: 8670)

Once you have confirmed that your item appears on this list, stop using it immediately. Do not attempt to test it or show it to others. Your safety is the priority, and identification is just the first step in securing your full refund.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

When you receive news that a product you own has been recalled, the most immediate and practical question is almost always: "What happens next?" In this specific case involving GS Fireworks, the remedy is straightforward and consumer-friendly. The company has opted to provide a full refund for all affected items. This means there is no need to seek a repair, nor will you be offered a replacement product. While some recalls involve sending in a defective part for fixing or mailing back an item for store credit on a newer model, that is not the path here. The goal is simply to return your money and remove the hazardous item from your possession entirely.

The process begins with one crucial step: you must immediately stop using the recalled fireworks. Do not attempt to test them, display them, or give them away to friends or family who might use them. Once you have secured the items safely, your next action is to initiate the return. GS Fireworks has established a dedicated channel for this purpose. You can contact their consumer support team by calling 616-304-8800. The company states that this line is available "anytime," which suggests they have set up resources to handle inquiries around the clock, recognizing that customers may need to act outside of standard business hours. Alternatively, if you prefer written communication or need to provide specific details about your purchase in writing, you can email jewell.david@att.net.

You might wonder why a refund is the chosen remedy rather than a replacement. The answer lies in the nature of the defect. These fireworks were overloaded with pyrotechnics, violating federal safety standards regarding audible effects. This isn't a minor manufacturing glitch that can be easily fixed; it is a fundamental violation of safety regulations that makes the entire product line unsafe. Therefore, no amount of repair can make these specific shells or cakes safe to use. The only way to eliminate the explosion and burn hazard is to ensure the product never reaches a consumer's hand again. By returning the item for a full refund, you are not just getting your money back; you are actively participating in a public safety effort.

To complete your refund, you will likely need to follow the instructions provided by the GS Fireworks representative when you call or email them. They will guide you on how to ship the items back or where to drop them off, depending on their current logistics. Keep in mind that while the recall date was June 26, 2019, it is important to act promptly if you still possess these items. Although there have been no reported incidents so far, the potential for harm remains as long as the product is in use. By taking the time to contact GS Fireworks and return your fireworks, you ensure that you are not left with a dangerous surprise during your next celebration. The financial loss is minimal compared to the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have eliminated a serious risk.

What can happen if you ignore it

When you choose to keep using a product that has been officially recalled, you are essentially gambling with your safety and the safety of those around you. In this specific case involving GS Fireworks, the danger is not a minor inconvenience or a simple malfunction; it is a fundamental violation of federal safety standards designed to prevent catastrophic injury. The recalled items are overloaded with pyrotechnics, meaning they contain more explosive material than is legally permitted for consumer use. Ignoring the recall does not make the product safer; it leaves you exposed to the exact hazards that prompted the government and the manufacturer to issue this alert in the first place.

The primary consequence of continuing to use these overloaded fireworks is a significantly higher risk of explosion and severe burn injuries. Because the pyrotechnic composition exceeds regulatory limits, the explosive force generated upon ignition is greater than what the casing and packaging are designed to contain or direct safely. This can lead to unpredictable flight paths, premature detonations in the hand or at ground level, and shrapnel that travels further and with more force than normal fireworks. The "audible effect" intended by the overload often comes at the cost of structural integrity, turning what should be a distant visual display into a close-range projectile hazard. Even if no incidents have been publicly reported yet, the potential for serious harm—such as permanent eye damage, hand injuries requiring surgical intervention, or skin burns—is substantial and immediate.

Beyond physical injury, there are legal and financial repercussions to ignoring a federal recall. These products were sold exclusively by GS Fireworks because they failed to meet the rigorous testing requirements set by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). By using them, you are not only risking your health but also forfeiting your right to a remedy. The recall offers a full refund as a gesture of goodwill and risk mitigation from the manufacturer. If you continue to use the product and an injury occurs, pursuing legal recourse becomes infinitely more complex. Courts often view the continued use of a known recalled product as contributory negligence, which can severely limit or eliminate any compensation you might seek for medical bills or other damages. You would be bearing the full cost of your own treatment while the manufacturer has already offered to take the product back and pay you for it.

There is also a community safety dimension to consider. Fireworks are rarely used in isolation. An overloaded shell that explodes prematurely can injure bystanders, pets, or neighbors who have no reason to suspect danger. The social and emotional toll of causing harm to others due to the use of a known defective product is a heavy burden to carry. Choosing to return the item is not just about protecting yourself; it is an act of responsibility toward everyone in your vicinity. The risk of a tragic accident is real, and the consequences of ignoring a federal safety warning are far more severe than the minor hassle of mailing back a box of fireworks.

Staying safe: broader tips

Purchasing fireworks is often about capturing a moment of shared wonder, but that experience relies heavily on responsible handling and smart preparation. While this specific recall highlights the dangers of products that violate federal safety standards by being overloaded with pyrotechnics, the broader lesson applies to how we approach all consumer pyrotechnics. The most critical step in staying safe begins long before you light a fuse: understanding where your products come from. Always buy fireworks from reputable, licensed vendors who adhere to strict manufacturing guidelines. Avoid purchasing unmarked, homemade, or illegally imported devices, as these items are far more likely to contain inconsistent chemical compositions that can lead to unpredictable explosions or failure to ignite at all.

Once you have your products, proper storage is just as important as their purchase. Pyrotechnic materials are sensitive to environmental conditions. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture. Excessive humidity can degrade the structural integrity of fuse casings or cause chemical instability, while extreme heat can potentially trigger premature ignition during storage. Keep them in their original packaging until you are ready to use them, as this provides a layer of protection against accidental friction or impact. Never store fireworks near open flames, cigarettes, or other ignition sources in your home.

When it is time to set off your fireworks, create a safe environment for everyone involved. Always have water nearby—whether in a hose, bucket, or spray bottle—to quickly extinguish any malfunctions or lingering sparks. Never relight a "dud" firework; wait at least twenty minutes and then soak it completely in water before disposing of it properly. It is also vital to maintain a safe distance between spectators and the ignition point. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for minimum safe distances, which are often greater than what people intuitively expect. Additionally, ensure that children are supervised closely and are never allowed to handle or light fireworks themselves.

Beyond physical safety measures, stay informed about product safety updates. Regularly check official recall databases like those provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for your household items. Manufacturers may discover defects after products have been sold, and timely recalls can prevent injuries. By staying alert to these notices and treating all pyrotechnics with respect, you help ensure that celebrations remain joyful memories rather than cautionary tales. Remember, safety is not just about following rules; it is about cultivating a mindset of care for yourself and those around you.