‘Leave It to the Pros’: NC Fire Officials stress firework safety
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — With Independence Day approaching, local fireworks vendors are reminding residents of what’s legal — and what’s not — when it comes to at-home celebrations.
Sabrina Jarman, a tent operator for TNT Fireworks, is set up in the Ocean Gate Plaza in Leland through July 6. She said all the fireworks sold at her location are legal under North Carolina law.
“Everything that we sell is going to be ground based and it’s going to be North Carolina legal,” Jarman said.
State law prohibits fireworks that launch into the air or explode, including roman candles, mortars, and sky rockets. However, Jarman said some customers still ask about fireworks that are not allowed.
“We get that all the time. A lot of people say it’s not the good ones, but everything is colorful, it makes sound, it’s still enjoyable for the kids, and it’s also safe for the property around us,” she said.
While the fireworks sold at Jarman’s tent are legal, she advises buyers to check with their local homeowners associations before lighting them off.
“It should be fine for our neighborhoods around here but definitely check with your HOAs and make sure you can set those off,” she said.
According to the North Carolina Department of Insurance, which oversees the Office of the State Fire Marshal, 72% of fireworks-related injuries occur in July. From 2020 to 2024, nearly 1,000 people across the state were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks-related injuries.
Southport Fire Chief Charles Drew encourages residents to attend permitted, professional shows instead of trying to put on their own displays.
“One of the things we always say is leave the fireworks to the professionals because they can be very dangerous and with the dry season that we’ve had just go to a professional display instead of trying to do something at home,” Drew said.
Jarman said her stand also sells novelty fireworks, including some that may be familiar to longtime users.
“Things like snakes that are just nostalgic to, you know, our childhood,” she said.
The fireworks tent in Ocean Gate Plaza will remain open through July 6, while supplies last. Jarman said they also offer a discount for veterans and first responders.
