PUBLIC NOTICE
BOLIVIA, N.C. – As Independence Day weekend approaches, the Brunswick County Fire Marshal’s Office reminds residents and visitors to follow best safety practices and state laws concerning fireworks.
A burn ban is in effect for the unincorporated areas within Brunswick County due to weather conditions that are not favorable to open burning. Because of these conditions, officials recommend individuals avoid using personal fireworks this Independence Day weekend and consider attending professional fireworks displays instead.
Professional fireworks displays and other Independence Day events in Brunswick County can be found on the N.C. 4th of July Festival website and the Brunswick County Tourism Development Authority website.
Fireworks Regulations & Safety Tips
Fireworks such as ground spinners, firecrackers, round spinners, Roman candles, bottle rockets, and mortars are illegal in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina Forest Service, wildfires caused by fireworks can be prosecuted under the forest protection laws of North Carolina, and individuals may be subject to reimbursing the costs for fire suppression.
In general, fireworks such as sparklers, fountains, snake and glow worms, smoke devices, and novelty fireworks items that do not detonate or explode, do not spin, are hand‑held or ground‑based, and cannot propel themselves through the air are permitted for use in North Carolina. Individuals should make sure fireworks are legal in North Carolina prior to buying them, especially if purchased across state lines.
Individuals who live within a municipality or neighborhood should also check if there are local laws or property owners association rules for private fireworks celebrations.
The following fireworks safety practices can help prevent wildfires:
- Never use fireworks in neighborhood backyards or other crowded areas. Always use fireworks in a large, open, preferably paved, area or near a body of water.
- Never use fireworks near woods, vegetation, or any combustible material.
- Always use fireworks with adult supervision, and follow the instructions provided with the fireworks.
- Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals.
- Never try to relight or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Always have a water source, fire extinguisher, and rake or shovel nearby. Ensure all burning material is completely extinguished afterward and monitor the area for several hours.
Find more fireworks safety tips online at BrunswickCountyNC.gov/fireworks-safety. For questions, contact the Brunswick County Fire Marshal’s Office at 910-253-2041.
Always call 9-1-1 if it is an emergency. For non-emergency fireworks concerns, contact your local police department or call the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office’s non-emergency phone number at 910-253-7490.
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