Last Updated on June 30, 2026 9:15 am
BOONE, NC — As Independence Day approaches, Boone Fire Department wants to remind you to be fire smart. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 15,000 Americans are injured by fireworks annually with 15 deaths reported in 2025. Sparklers are one of the leading causes of injuries and can burn at 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit (or 1,093 degrees Celsius), which is hot enough to melt glass. It is estimated that sparklers led to 1,300 emergency room visits in 2025. Consider giving children glow sticks instead of sparklers. The North Carolina Office of State Fire Marshal reports that over 30,000 fires are caused by fireworks each year, including structure, vehicle, and outside fires.
The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals who know how to handle fireworks safely. However, if you choose to use fireworks, remember these important safety tips:
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
- Never stand directly over fireworks when lighting.
- Never light fireworks indoors.
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.
- Always stand several feet away from a lit firework.
- Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks.
- Always keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of fire.
The Town of Boone will celebrate America's 250th on July 4th with a parade at 11:00 a.m. followed by the 1872 Award at the Jones House at noon, and will launch a professional fireworks show at dusk in the area of Clawson/Burnley Park and the Watauga County Recreation Center. Tweetsie Railroad, Beech Mountain and Sugar Mountain will also have fireworks on July 4th. If you choose to use your own fireworks, only use fireworks that are sold legally in North Carolina. The following types of fireworks are illegal in North Carolina:
- Anything that explodes or is projected into the air
- Firecrackers
- Rockets
- Roman Candles
- Aerial Fireworks
As always, supervise children around fireworks, remember to always have a fire extinguisher nearby, make sure everyone knows to Stop, Drop, and Roll if your clothing catches fire and dial 911 if a burn warrants medical attention.
Additional fireworks safety tips can be found at: https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks
