WAKE FOREST, NC – As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day and our nation’s 250th birthday, Wake Forest officials are reminding community members that the possession or discharge of most fireworks that explode, spin, fly, jump in the air, or leave the ground in any way are prohibited by North Carolina (NC) law (NC General Statutes 14-410 and 14-414). Illegal explosives include - but are not limited to - firecrackers, ground spinners, Roman candles, bottle rockets, and mortars. PLEASE NOTE: Explosive fireworks sold legally in South Carolina and several other states are illegal in NC.
Violation of this state law is a Class 2 Misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500 and/or 30 days to six months in jail. Prosecutors enhance charges when the fireworks cause physical damage to people or property. In such cases, there is a maximum six-month jail term.
In NC, fireworks that are available for personal use are marked as 1.4G. Novelty items, including sparklers, caps for toy pistols, snake and glow worms that emit a snake-like ash when burning, and trick noisemakers, are legal but still can cause injury if not properly handled. In all cases, these items should be kept away from young children and pets.
While all fireworks, both illegal and legal, always pose serious property and life safety hazards, the threat is even greater when the weather is hot and dry – like now.
In a joint statement, Wake Forest Police Chief Julius Jefferson and Fire Chief Ron Early urged community members to be vigilant and celebrate Independence Day wisely.
“In addition to being against the law, illegal fireworks can cause serious injuries or even death. Considering our current hot and dry conditions, the use of illegal fireworks also puts an unnecessary call burden on our first responders due to the elevated risk of fires and damages to property.”
Chiefs Jefferson and Early say viewing public displays handled by professionals is the safest way to enjoy fireworks. Wake Forest’s annual Fireworks Spectacular is set for Friday, July 3, at Heritage High School, 1150 Forestville Road. Husky Stadium gates will open at 5:30 p.m. and the fireworks show will begin around 9:30 p.m. For complete information, visit bit.ly/WFIndependenceDay(opens in a new tab).