Celebrating Safely: Essential Fireworks Safety Tips
Summer celebrations and holidays can be some of the most memorable, and we hope in a good way. To ensure fun and safety for all, it's crucial to understand both local regulations and safety precautions before you light that first sparkler.
Know North Carolina's Fireworks Laws
In North Carolina, the law is clear: any firework that leaves the ground is illegal for consumer use. This means rockets, Roman candles, aerial shells and bottle rockets are all prohibited. The state only permits "safe and sane" fireworks, which include sparklers, fountains, ground spinners and other devices that remain on the ground during operation.
Small Fireworks Can Still Cause Serious Injuries
Even legal fireworks pose significant risks. Sparklers, often given to children, burn at temperatures exceeding 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. That is hot enough to melt metal. Emergency rooms see thousands of fireworks-related injuries each year, with burns to hands, fingers and eyes being the most common.
Ground-based fireworks can malfunction, tip over or produce unexpected sparks and debris. What seems like a harmless fountain can suddenly shoot sparks in unintended directions or burn longer than expected.
Essential Safety Practices
Before You Start:
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Only purchase fireworks from licensed retailers
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Read all instructions carefully before use
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Have a water source nearby, like a garden hose or large bucket of water
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Keep a first aid kit accessible
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Check weather conditions; never use fireworks in dry conditions or high winds
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Notify neighbors in advance, especially those with pets or young children
During Use:
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Light fireworks on a flat, hard surface away from buildings, dry grass, and vehicles
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Maintain at least 25 feet of clear space around your display area
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Light one firework at a time, then move away quickly
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Never attempt to relight a "dud." Instead, wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water
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Never hold fireworks in your hands while lighting them
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Point fireworks away from people, houses and flammable materials
Supervision and Age Guidelines:
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Children should never handle fireworks independently
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Adults should light all fireworks, even sparklers
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Provide close supervision when children are near any fireworks
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Consider safer alternatives like glow sticks for very young children
After the Show
Don't forget about cleanup and disposal. Soak all used fireworks in water before throwing them away. Check your yard thoroughly for debris, which can be sharp and dangerous. Dispose of everything properly in your regular trash and never try to dismantle unused fireworks.
Safe Alternatives to Consider
If you want to avoid the risks entirely, consider attending a professional fireworks display instead. Many communities host spectacular shows managed by licensed pyrotechnicians who follow strict safety protocols.
For home celebrations, LED light shows, laser projectors, or even party poppers can create excitement without the fire hazard. Sparkler alternatives like LED sparklers provide the visual appeal without the burn risk.
When Things Go Wrong
Despite precautions, accidents can happen. For minor burns, immediately run cool water over the affected area for 10-15 minutes. Never use ice or butter on burns. For serious injuries, eye injuries, or burns larger than a quarter, seek emergency medical care immediately.
Keep emergency numbers handy and don't hesitate to call 911 if needed. Many fireworks injuries occur when people try to treat serious burns at home instead of getting professional medical help.
The Bottom Line
Fireworks can add excitement to celebrations, but they demand respect and careful handling. By following North Carolina's laws, taking proper safety precautions, and staying alert throughout your celebration, you can help ensure that your holiday memories are happy ones. Remember, no fireworks display is worth risking serious injury to yourself, your family or your neighbors.
When in doubt, leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy the show from a safe distance. Your celebration can still be memorable and magical without unnecessary risks.
Emergency Care is Close By
We want your holiday to remain incident free! But if you need emergency services, CaroMont Health offers three locations for 24/7 care. Click here to familiarize yourself with Emergency Department options in Gastonia, Mount Holly and Belmont.