The City of Gastonia in conjunction with the Gastonia Fire and Police Departments is seeking the public’s help to remind others about the dangers of fireworks and practice safety as the Fourth of July holiday approaches. Fireworks are dangerous and the #1 cause of fires in the City during this time of year.
Any firework that will explode, spin, or leave the ground is illegal in North Carolina and carries up to a $500 fine and six months in jail.
Fireworks Facts in the U.S. (Consumer Products Safety Commission – 2021):
- 11,500 injuries reported in the U.S. due to fireworks.
- 8,500 of the 11,500 injuries had to treated in hospital emergency rooms.
- 29% of the 8,500 injuries were children and32% were adults age 24-44.
- Nine people were killed in the U.S. due to injuries sustained from fireworks.
- 8,500 of the 11,500 injuries had to treated in hospital emergency rooms.
During the month of June, the City, Police and Fire Departments have used various platforms to remind the public that fireworks are dangerous, can kill, and to leave fireworks to the professionals by attending professional fireworks celebrations. Messages have been placed on the City’s CodeRED® public messaging system, webpages, and social media pages for the City, Fire, and Police Departments. Several videos have also been created to convey strong messages to the public about the dangers of fireworks.
“Fireworks can be very dangerous if handled improperly, and all fireworks that are intended to explode, spin, or leave the ground are illegal in the state of North Carolina,” said Gastonia Fire Marshal Chris Stowe. “The absolute best way to keep you and your family safe this Fourth of July, is to attend a professionally regulated fireworks show and pass on the consumer fireworks.”
Gastonia’s Fourth of July | Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Activities start at 5 p.m. at the Rotary Pavilion (Downtown Gastonia)
Fireworks start at 9:30 p.m.
The public should be aware of street closures starting at 4 p.m.
The City of Gastonia and Gastonia Fire & Police Department are asking media outlets to help inform the public about the dangers and fireworks and to practice safety measures.