As the 4th of July approaches, families across North Carolina are preparing for cookouts, community gatherings, and of course — fireworks. While these celebrations can be exciting, they can also be dangerous when basic safety measures are ignored.
At Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers, we’re proud to assist in raising awareness about fireworks safety so everyone can enjoy the holiday without a trip to the emergency room.
Why Fireworks Can Be Risky
Fireworks might seem like harmless fun, but they can cause serious and sometimes life-changing injuries.
Common risks include:
- Burns and injuries from rockets, mortars, and sparklers
- Fires that damage homes, vehicles, or natural landscapes
- Hearing loss from loud explosions
Property damage caused by misfired or poorly aimed fireworks
Even small fireworks like sparklers burn at extremely high temperatures — hot enough to cause third-degree burns in seconds. Many injuries happen in an instant, often when someone least expects it.
Riddle & Riddle Supports Fireworks Safety Awareness
With North Carolina’s growing number of backyard celebrations and fireworks displays, safety education is more important than ever. That’s why Riddle & Riddle is committed to supporting public efforts that remind people how to celebrate safely and legally.
We want to ensure our communities know the risks and how to avoid them—because prevention is always better than litigation.
How to Stay Safe with Fireworks
Know the Rules
- Only purchase fireworks that are legal in North Carolina
- Use fireworks only in permitted areas and always obey local ordinances
- Never use homemade or altered fireworks
Select a Safe Spot
- Light fireworks in open, nonflammable areas like concrete or dirt
- Keep a safe distance from homes, vehicles, trees, and dry grass
- Always maintain a clear perimeter between spectators and fireworks
Have Safety Gear Ready
- Keep a hose, fire extinguisher, or large bucket of water nearby
- Have a basic first aid kit ready in case of burns or scrapes
- Wear eye protection when lighting fireworks
Light Responsibly
- Only one person should light fireworks at a time
- Never point fireworks toward people, pets, or structures
- Do not relight “duds” — wait 15–20 minutes and soak them in water
Dispose of Fireworks Correctly
- Place used fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them away
- Clean up debris immediately to avoid fire hazards or injuries to others
Protecting Children and Pets
- Sparklers may seem kid-friendly, but they burn at over 1,200°F — hot enough to melt some metals
- Children should never light or handle fireworks
- Keep pets indoors, as fireworks can cause stress, fear, and disorientation
If Something Goes Wrong: What To Do
- In the event of fire or injury, call 911 immediately
- Rinse minor burns with cool water — never apply ice
- If an eye injury occurs, do not touch or rub the area — seek emergency care right away
Even small accidents can have serious consequences. Timely medical attention is critical — and if the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence or defective fireworks, legal help may also be needed.
Celebrate Smart, Celebrate Safe
The 4th of July should be a time of fun, family, and fireworks — not emergency room visits. With a little planning and a lot of care, your Independence Day celebration can go off without a hitch.
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers has represented victims of firework-related injuries across North Carolina. Whether it’s a burn caused by faulty products or a traumatic injury due to someone else’s reckless behavior, we are here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve if you qualify.
If you or someone you love has been injured during a fireworks display, don’t wait to get help. Call us today at 1‑800‑525‑7111 for a free case review. We’ll guide you through your options, protect your rights, and, if you decide to hire us, work to get the outcome you need to move forward.
From all of us at Riddle & Riddle: have a safe, joyful, and (responsible) firework-filled 4th of July.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer from Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer in North Carolina today. We have five convenient locations in North Carolina, including Greenville, Raleigh, Goldsboro, Jacksonville, Kinston, Charlotte, Greensboro, Durham, Fayetteville, Wilmington, Winston-Salem & Garner.
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Greenville Office
300 E Arlington Blvd Suite 2A #110, Greenville, NC 27858
252-397-7400
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Raleigh Office
4600 Marriott Dr STE 500, Raleigh, NC 27612
919-459-7855
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Goldsboro Office
601 N Spence Ave, Goldsboro, NC 27534
919-759-6963
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Jacksonville Office
3391 Henderson Dr, Jacksonville, NC 28546
910-910-1860
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Kinston Office
807 N Queen St, Kinston, NC 28501
252-397-0134
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Charlotte Office
1914 J N Pease Pl Suite 142, Charlotte, NC 28262
704-781-7980
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Greensboro Office
7B Corporate Center Ct Suite 15, Greensboro, NC 27408
336-395-5349
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Durham Office
100 E Parrish St STE 200, Durham, NC 27701
919-925-6039
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Fayetteville Office
2517 Raeford Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28305
910-387-0861
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Wilmington Office
1608 Queen St Suite 12, Wilmington, NC 28401
910-889-3926
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Winston-Salem Office
102 W 3rd St, Ste 1007, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
336-396-6310
Riddle & Riddle Injury Lawyers - Garner Office
500 Benson Rd Suite 111, Garner, NC 27529