Asheville Fire Department: Leave Fourth of July fireworks to the professionals, consider safer alternatives

Asheville -- Asheville City Government Community News: Each Fourth of July, thousands of people, most often children and

teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks – devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death.  That’s why the Asheville Fire Department recommends leaving the fireworks to the professionals. 

We are excited to share there will be fireworks in downtown Asheville!  

Fireworks will begin around 9:30 pm on the Fourth of July in downtown Asheville.
City of Asheville to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks for our community
 

The Asheville Fire Department enforces the NC Fire Code, which includes restrictions on selling illegal fireworks.  Basically, legal fireworks include novelty items that do not explode, fly, spin or leave the ground. These include fountains, smoke devices, snappers, glowworms, sparklers, poppers, and snakes.  Illegal fireworks include any that explode or leave the ground/projected into the air.  These include roman candles, firecrackers, aerial fireworks, bottle rockets.  

There are safe alternatives to using even legal fireworks, which can cause burn injuries. For safe and patriotic fun do something different this year.  Try an outside movie, use glow sticks instead of sparklers, or even red, white and blue silly string could be fun! 

If you choose to celebrate with legal fireworks please follow these safety tips:

Always have a nearby water source. 
Never allow children to use lighters.
Be mindful of pets who get scared.
Be aware of your surroundings. 
Can only be used in private settings.
Sky lanterns are illegal.
 

AFD wishes everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July weekend!