As Americans prepare to celebrate our country’s independence, the Wake Forest Police Department is reminding area residents that the possession or discharge of fireworks that explode, spin, fly, jump in the air or leave the ground in any way are prohibited by North Carolina law. Illegal explosives include but are not limited to firecrackers, ground spinners, Roman candles, bottle rockets and mortars.
The law is stipulated in North Carolina General Statutes 14-410 and 14-414. Violation of this State Law is a Class 2 Misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500 and/or 30 days to six months in jail.
Residents are also reminded that explosive fireworks, which are sold legally in South Carolina and several other states, are illegal in North Carolina.
In North Carolina, fireworks that are available for personal use are those marked as 1.4G. Novelty items, including sparklers, caps for toy pistols, snake and glow worms that emit a snake-like ash when burning, and trick noisemakers, are legal but still can cause injury if not properly handled. In all cases, these items should be kept away from young children and pets.
While illegal and legal fireworks always pose a serious property and life safety hazard, the threat is even greater when the weather is hot and dry. Houses and businesses composed of wood frame construction, surrounded by combustible landscaping, can contribute to fast moving fires caused by the negligent use of fireworks. Significant brush fires and injuries to persons may also occur as a result of fireworks use.
If you elect to celebrate Independence Day with consumer fireworks, please consider and use the following safety precautions:
- Consider how you will respond to a minor burn or serious burn injury prior to your event.
- Never let children ignite fireworks.
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy for hot embers.
- Wet the ground surrounding your event site prior to igniting the fireworks.
- Follow any instructions on the firework exactly.
- Ensure that you back safely away after igniting the firework.
- Never attempt to re-ignite a firework.
- Douse all of the remnants of the fireworks with water when your event is finished.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, eight fireworks-related deaths were reported in 2013. All six resulted from the use of illegal and homemade fireworks.
Rather than risking fire or injury from the use of consumer fireworks, area residents are urged to enjoy the Wake Forest Fireworks Spectacular on Thursday, July 3. An array of family activities is planned at Wake Forest High School, 420 W. Stadium Dr., beginning at 5:30 p.m. A professional fireworks display will conclude the festivities. For complete details, visit www.wakeforestnc.gov/july4.aspx.
