People are stocking up on fireworks at the last minute, preparing to celebrate Thursday.
Allan Umphrey has been selling fireworks at a tent on John Young Parkway and Edgewater Drive.
He emphasized that people who purchase fireworks for the Fourth of July need to follow the instructions.
“They have pictures on the back to let you know again: what to do and what not to do,” Umphrey said.
There are also noticeable yellow warnings on the front of the packages.
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“Everything comes with a warning label. For the most part, if someone gets hurt on these, they’re not reading the warning label — they’re being very irresponsible,” Umphrey said.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported 9,700 people were treated in ERs for fireworks injuries in 2023.
Of those injuries, 42% were burns, with most of them impacting the hands and fingers.
The commission shared these safety tips:
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
- Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
- Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
- Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs
Umphrey sells all types of fireworks, but he said no matter how big or small, everything has a capability of harming you.
“So you have to respect it,” Umphrey said.
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