Stars, Stripes & Safety: Enjoy Fireworks the Smart Way

By Samantha Simmons, MS

There’s nothing quite like the Fourth of July in North Carolina. The smell of burgers on the grill, neighbors gathering with lawn chairs, and the excitement of celebrating with family and friends are all part of what makes Independence Day so special.

As families get ready to celebrate, a few simple safety reminders can help keep the holiday fun for everyone.

While fireworks are a beloved tradition, they do send thousands of people to the emergency room each year. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 13,000 fireworks-related injuries and 15 deaths occur annually in the United States. Burns are the most common injury, and hands and fingers are the body parts most often affected.

Even sparklers, a favorite for many children, deserve extra attention. Sparklers can burn at temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and are linked to about 1,300 injuries each year. That's why it's important to keep a close eye on little ones and make sure an adult is always nearby.

Fireworks can also create problems beyond bumps and burns. Nationwide, fireworks start more than 31,000 fires each year, including brush, vehicle, and structure fires. Here in North Carolina, where thousands of wildfires occur each year and dry conditions can quickly increase fire danger, a little extra caution can go a long way.

If you're planning to celebrate at home, it's also important to know what's legal in North Carolina. State law allows certain consumer fireworks, such as sparklers and other novelty items, but most fireworks that explode or shoot into the air, including firecrackers, bottle rockets, Roman candles, and aerial shells, are reserved for permitted professional displays.

For those using legal consumer fireworks, a few simple steps can help make the celebration safer:

• Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

• Keep children and pets at a safe distance away.

• Have a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby.

• Light only one firework at a time and move away quickly.

• Never relight a firework that doesn't go off.

• Avoid using fireworks near dry grass, leaves, or wooded areas.

• Soak used fireworks in water before throwing them away.

If a fire does start, call 911 immediately. Even small fires can spread quickly, especially during dry conditions. Calling 911 ensures that local firefighters and fire officials can respond quickly and provide assistance before the situation becomes more serious.

Of course, one of the easiest ways to enjoy the holiday is to leave the fireworks to the professionals. Fortunately, Burke County has several great opportunities to do just that. The Valdese Independence Day Fireworks, Lake James Fireworks, the City of Morganton Fourth of July Fireworks, and the City of Lenoir July Fourth Celebration all offer a chance to enjoy a spectacular show with family and friends.

This Fourth of July, let's celebrate safely, make lasting memories, and enjoy all the red, white, and blue fun that comes with Independence Day. Here's to a holiday filled with good food, great company, and plenty of sparkle in the sky.