Durham, N.C. - The celebration of our nation's independence each year traditionally ends the evening with a glamourous show of pyrotechnic displays sanctioned by local governments. It's also a hectic holiday that often involves the use of illegal fireworks and associated injuries, property loss, and death of citizens.

"The Fourth of July has the highest reported number of fireworks injuries in the United States and North Carolina is no exception" said Durham County Chief Fire Marshal Jason B. Shepherd. "Use of fireworks should always be left to licensed professionals. Doing so minimizes the risk or injury to everyone involved."

Kids can be a large part of the holiday celebration and therefore it is important to consider age-appropriate activities for children without the use of pyrotechnics. Why? According to recently released data from the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, over the past 15 years injuries associated with fireworks climbed 25 percent in the United States. In 2021, there were an estimated 11,500 injury incidents involving fireworks - including nine deaths. Additionally, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported that more than 19,500 fires are started by fireworks annually. It is also reported that children ages 10-14 had the highest rate of fireworks injury.

Local fire marshals are tasked with permitting all explosives ordinances and "pyrotechnics" or fireworks that are manufactured, sold, used or stored in North Carolina. Pyrotechnics can be categorized as professional grade and consumer grade. North Carolina has strict requirements regarding over-the-counter pyrotechnics and their use. Consumer grade pyrotechnics typically sold over the counter in South Carolina and Tennessee and professional grade are illegal in North Carolina unless you possess a license issued by the state and a permit for a show issued by a local fire official.

"There is no safe way to use consumer grade fireworks," Shepherd said. "While our state recognizes minimal fireworks sales, even using these can generate the most dangerous injuries. Sparklers for example, generate 1,200 degrees of heat, are responsible for more injuries, and should never be handed to a child to use."

Another consideration before planning your Fourth of July celebration is that the booms and flashes from fireworks, firecrackers, and bottle rockets may be a source of stress for some members of the community. Loud noises can be a trigger for some veterans and others struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Pets are also affected by do-it-yourself Fourth of July celebrations. Many pets also are unfamiliar with the sounds of the explosions and may suffer needless anxiety.

A few safe ideas from the NFPA to get into the patriotic spirit without the use of backyard fireworks include:

Use of glow sticks. They glow in the dark and are a safe alternative to a sparkler. They are fun for all ages.

Loud and proud. Noise makers are sure to make a statement. They can be found at local party stores or make your own!

Outdoor movie night. Set up a big screen and projector and watch your favorite film.

Red, white, and blue silly string.

Make a patriotic craft with the family.

Throw a birthday party for the USA, and don't forget the cake.

City of Durham Fire Department Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal Jody Morton recommends the only safe way to view fireworks is to attend a professionally run show. There are numerous events in the Triangle region that allow for astonishing, exciting, and most importantly safe viewing of fireworks.

"If families want to participate in fireworks celebrations, I encourage residents to visit downtown Durham for a professional fireworks show," Morton said. "The City of Durham and the Durham Bulls are hosting a professional display at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park at approximately 9:45 p.m. on the July 4 holiday. Residents and visitors can enter the ballpark at the bottom of the 7th inning free of charge until the capacity is reached. Once the ballpark is at capacity, the fireworks can also be viewed from the Blackwell Street third base line outside of park. It is imperative that we leave the fireworks to the professionals and enjoy this sanctioned event and not participate in illegal backyard displays."

Morton noted that there will also be professional fireworks show at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park on Monday, July 3 after the USA baseball game.

If community members are made aware of any aerial fireworks other than the display at the DBAP, it is encouraged to report that activity through Durham's Emergency Communications Center non-emergency number of 919-560-4600.

For more information, contact Shepherd at 919-560-0663 or at jshepherd@dconc.gov, or Morton at 919-560-4233, ext. 19240, or Jody.Morton@durhamnc.gov.