Carteret County Emergency Services encourages safe celebrations for Independence Day

CARTERET COUNTY, N.C. (June 28, 2024) – With Independence Day approaching, Carteret County Emergency Services is encouraging residents to prioritize their health and safety during their celebrations.

“Fireworks are a popular way to celebrate the Fourth of July, but they can also be dangerous,” said Carteret County Fire Marshal Eddie Lewis. “This year, with drier than usual conditions, it’s especially important to handle fireworks with caution.”

Fireworks pose a significant risk of personal injury and property damage. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fireworks cause an average of 19,500 fires each year, including structure fires, vehicle fires, and other fires.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that in 2023, at least eight people died and an estimated 9,700 were injured in fireworks incidents. Most injuries occur between mid-June and mid-July and can range from smoke inhalation to burns, vision loss, hearing loss, or loss of fingers and toes.

In addition, North Carolina law restricts fireworks use. Residents are only allowed to possess and use items that do not explode, fly through the air, or spin. This includes sparklers, fountains, smoke devices, poppers, snappers, glowworms, and novelty items that stay on the ground. All other fireworks, including firecrackers, Roman candles, bottle rockets, mortars, and aerial fireworks, are illegal in North Carolina, even if purchased from a vendor.

To help residents celebrate safely, Fire Marshal Lewis offers the following tips:

• Never allow children to light fireworks or use sparklers unattended.
• Use fireworks in a clear outdoor area, away from flammable materials like dry leaves, people, pets, buildings, vehicles, and overhead obstructions.
• Be aware of wind or drought conditions that could affect the trajectory of fireworks or ignite fires.
• Have a bucket of water or a hose readily available for extinguishing unexpected fires or firework “duds.”
• Never throw or point fireworks at anyone, and never ignite them in a container.
• Stabilize fireworks on the ground before lighting, preferably on a fire-resistant surface like concrete or a driveway. Never light a firework in your hand.
• Light one firework at a time and move back quickly to a safe distance after lighting.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket. Avoid placing any part of your body over a firework while lighting the fuse.
• Do not attempt to re-light a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes, then soak it in water before disposal.
• Douse spent fireworks with water and dispose of them in a covered metal trash can away from buildings or combustibles until the next day.
• Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Only purchase and use fireworks labeled for consumer use, not professional use.

“We encourage everyone to celebrate July 4th safely by spending time with loved ones,” added Lewis. “Use caution with fireworks, be mindful of your surroundings, and consider attending a local professional fireworks display.”

For more information on fireworks safety, contact Carteret County Emergency Services at 252-222-5841 or visit the National Council on Fireworks Safety at www.nsc.org or the National Fire Protection Association at www.nfpa.org.

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