Which fireworks are illegal in NC? What if you’re caught with them? July 4th need-to-knows

For many, Fourth of July celebrations come with grilling, parades and, of course, fireworks.

Events throughout the Triangle — including those with fireworks displays — are scheduled to help families mark the holiday.

But there will be some who opt for a DIY fireworks show.

Before lighting anything on fire, keep in mind North Carolina’s rules about fireworks and what could happen if they’re broken.

Are fireworks allowed in North Carolina?

It’s legal to have and use certain fireworks at home. Want to play with a sparkler? Go for it. Watch a black snake grow ? Sure. Surprise a friend with a popper? That’s fine.

But lighting a Roman candle? Launching aerial fireworks into the night sky? Definitely not. That should be left to the professionals, who need to have proper training, licensing and permission from the authorities.

If it explodes or is fired into the air , it’s a no-no in North Carolina.

Also, there’s an age restriction . Anyone younger than 16 years old is not legally allowed to purchase or use fireworks in the state.

Fireworks are legal and easier to come by in South Carolina. In the past, North Carolinians have been known to mosey on down there, buy some fireworks and bring them back to North Carolina. It’s not legal to do that, but it happens.

Using fireworks at home

If you have legal fireworks , you’re allowed to use them in your neighborhood.

However, the noise and smells associated with some of these devices can be traumatic for combat veterans or people who have experienced an explosion, fire or gun violence , according to the U.S. Department for Veterans Affairs.

Also, pets and other animals may be disturbed by fireworks. The sounds and sights may frighten and confuse animals, causing them to run away from familiar territory or into roadways, The Humane Society of the United States says .

What’s the penalty for having fireworks in North Carolina?

Let’s say one were to ignore the rules and shoot off some contraband, and the authorities find out.

The violation could result in a fine or up to six months in jail , according to the Fuquay-Varina Police Department .

Fireworks safety

If you are going to use fireworks, keep these tips in mind, which The News & Observer previously gathered from local fire departments:

• Only purchase fireworks from reliable vendors.
• Don’t modify fireworks or try to make your own.
• Find a cool, dry place to store fireworks.
• Don’t carry fireworks in your pockets.
• Don’t wear loose clothing when using fireworks.
• Make sure to have a fire extinguisher or water nearby in case a fire starts. Hoses or a bucket of water will do the job.
• Light fireworks one at a time. If a firework doesn’t light, don’t try to light it again. Instead, pour water on it.
• Light fireworks outside on a paved surface, away from grass, trees and other plants.
• Don’t shoot fireworks from a metal or glass container.
• Don’t point fireworks at people, animals, cars, buildings, trees or other flammable objects.

How to take care of pets during Fourth of July

As mentioned above, pets and other animals may not care for fireworks as much as people do.

Here are a few suggestions for keeping pets safe and comfortable while fireworks are going off:

• Don’t take pets to a fireworks show. Leave them at home, inside.
• Make sure your pet wears an ID tag and has an updated microchip, with your correct contact information.
• It may be worth it to ask your veterinarian if there’s any medication to help your anxiety-prone pet.
• Cover up some firework noise by turning on the TV or radio.
• Keep doors closed so pets can’t escape.
• Try distracting your pet with a treat.
  
  
• Dress your pet in a ThunderShirt or a similar item to help keep them calm.

The News & Observer’s Brooke Cain and Steven Matthews Jr. contributed to this story.

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