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Fireworks and Kids Can Be an Explosive Combination

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RALEIGH — Fireworks and the Fourth of July are an American tradition, but the combination can be deadly for kids.

Children between the ages of 10 and 14 make up the majority of the 12,000 fireworks-related injuries each year, even though it is illegal for anyone under 16 to buy or use fireworks.

In North Carolina, anything that explodes or leaves the ground is illegal. Raleigh Fire Marshal Larry Stanford says a lot of people get the illegal fireworks from South Carolina and bring them here.

Legal fireworks include explosive caps, snake and glow worms, smoke devices, trick noise makers and sparklers.

Older teens and adults need to use extreme caution when using legal fireworks as they can be extremely dangerous for anyone at any age.
  • Always follow package directions.
  • Always have a garden hose or fire extinguisher handy in case of an emergency.
  • Only light one at a time.
  • Make sure the area is clear of anything that can catch fire.
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