With the Fourth of July less than a week away and the Triangle baking in drought and extreme heat, North Carolina's state fire marshal is asking residents to leave the fireworks to the professionals. The warning is clear and blunt: skip the backyard pyrotechnics, especially homemade or modified devices, because conditions are primed for fast-moving fires.
Why the drought matters
Portions of central North Carolina, including parts of the Triangle, are now in the most severe drought category on the U.S. Drought Monitor, which means strained water supplies and bone-dry vegetation. According to Drought.gov, the June 25 update shows north-central North Carolina in "exceptional drought" and notes the region just had its second-driest January through May on record. Low reservoir levels combined with crisp, dry brush significantly increase the chance that a single stray spark from a consumer firework could ignite a fast-moving blaze.
State fire marshal: leave it to the pros
State Fire Marshal Brian Taylor is urging people across North Carolina to avoid setting off fireworks at home and to head to public, professionally run shows instead. As reported by WRAL, Taylor warned that some people try to modify devices, including by using PVC tubing, which can cause fireworks to explode unpredictably. He also stressed that sparklers and other seemingly "small" items still pose a serious risk to children. According to the marshal's office, the surest way to avoid injuries and accidental fires this holiday weekend is to stick with licensed displays and follow local guidance.
What officials are advising
The Office of the State Fire Marshal and local fire departments are urging residents to follow burn bans, keep a close eye on children around anything that throws off sparks, keep a hose or bucket of water nearby, and be ready to report any fire immediately by calling 911. As detailed by the NC Office of the State Fire Marshal, officials recommend that people enjoy community shows instead of attempting backyard launches and warn against altering or trying to relight malfunctioning fireworks. The guidance also reminds residents to be mindful of neighbors, pets and first responders when planning noisy holiday celebrations.
How big the risk is
Fireworks send thousands of people to emergency rooms every year. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported roughly 9,700 fireworks-related injuries in 2023 and notes that injuries spike around the July Fourth holiday week. According to CPSC, hands, faces and eyes are among the most commonly injured areas, and teenagers and young children make up a disproportionately large share of those injured. Those numbers are a big part of why officials are leaning so hard on the message of professional shows and tight supervision this weekend.
What the law says
North Carolina law strictly limits fireworks. G.S. 14-410 generally bans the manufacture, sale and use of pyrotechnics except in situations allowed by statute and when a licensed operator is involved. As posted by the North Carolina General Assembly, the law makes it clear that aerial and explosive devices are not legal for casual, at-home use and that public displays must be run by licensed professionals, with criminal penalties for violations. Anyone unsure about what is legal in their area is urged to check the state code and local ordinances before buying or lighting any fireworks.
This Saturday is still shaping up to be a busy night for community shows around the Triangle, but officials emphasize that every event is subject to weather and drought conditions, and plans can change quickly. For a rundown of area celebrations and local advisories, check WRAL and monitor your city's official emergency channels for the latest on burn bans and potential last-minute changes.
