SMITHFIELD TOWNSHIP, MONROE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — The Fourth of July is next week, and area shops are making sure you have fun while being smart.
28/22 News stopped by a fireworks shop in the Poconos with how they’re reminding people to be safe before lighting off an explosive show.
It’s a dazzling display, thousands of different types of fireworks are piled high inside Phantom Fireworks of Delaware Water Gap, ready to be fired off.
“July fourth’s right around the corner. We’re seeing more and more influx of customers coming in since Memorial Day,” said Ryan Mazario, manager at Phantom Fireworks of Delaware Water Gap.
Fireworks are legal in PA. You have to be 18 years old to purchase and can shoot them on private property, following your municipality's laws.
“We do get a lot of visitors here in the Poconos. Obviously, it’s a very big area for people to come in from New Jersey and New York, so we recommend them sticking to their state laws when they are purchasing their fireworks in the store,” said Nazario.
Weather Alert: Excessive heat warnings in effect across Pa.Nazario says they have anything from sparklers to mortars that cost under 20 bucks, all the way up to this "Grounds for Divorce" display at a whopping $750.
“The fireworks are definitely very consistent with their prices, they don’t really fluctuate much. We set them during the beginning of the season, and they stay that way, so they’re not going to change on you,” explained Nazario.
Regardless of cost, safety pamphlets in every aisle serve as a reminder of how dangerous fireworks can be.
Nazario says following these easy tips can help you celebrate safely, without ruining your holiday.
“Definitely like a water bucket or a hose around where you are setting off the fireworks…some safety goggles, you know, just in case there’s any kickback, things like that,” said Nazario.
Nazario says in addition to sharing safety information, they also spread awareness about new products such as IGNITE, which is a fireworks firing device you can use from your table or your phone.
“It’s not just buying it and setting them off, it’s something that brings people together and keeps them having a happy, fun time with each other outside,” said Nazario.
Other safety tips to keep in mind when setting off fireworks include shooting them off on a flat surface, steering clear of others, and soaking all of them in water before throwing them away.