Fireworks vendors hope for happy holiday returns

By Adam Smith

The North Jefferson News



Local fireworks vendors are expecting a busy July Fourth weekend, despite the lingering recession.

Fred Berry, owner and operator of Fireworks Unlimited at exit 282 in Warrior, said sales at his shop are up 18 to 19 percent over this time last year. He said despite the economy, families are continuing to buy fireworks.

“The thing about it is, fireworks are entertainment,” he said. “Last year when gasoline was up over $4 a gallon, you had more people staying at home and shooting off fireworks and they’re doing the same thing this year.”

At Crazy Bill’s Fireworks at the intersection of Decatur Highway and Mockingbird Lane in Gardendale, store clerk Alex Murcks of Springville said he expects a big sales increase as Saturday approaches.

“It can sometimes be slow the first two weeks, but right before the Fourth, it gets crazy,” he said.

Crazy Bills and Fireworks Unlimited both have a large variety of items for sale, including bigger packages that range in price from $200 to $700.

Murcks said the popular item this year are “Mighty Mites,” but his store is currently sold out of them. Berry said the popular item at his store are the multi-shot cake variety that cost between $20 to $80.

“They do numerous things when you light the fuse,” Berry said. “It’s like a display in a little box and it’s the safest way to shoot your fireworks.”

This year, Fireworks Unlimited is giving patrons a chance to see what the fireworks will look like before lighting the fuse. Using a flat-screen television and a 1,000-watt surround sound system, consumers can watch fireworks demonstrations on several varieties the store offers.

David Bottomlee of Fireworks Unlimited said many fireworks vendors produce the demonstration DVDs and customers have come to appreciate the service.

“It’s a lot like test driving a new car,” he said. “It gives them confidence when they walk out the door that they know what they’re getting.”

Bottomlee, a fighter pilot with the U.S. Air Force, said he’s been helping out at the store for several years.

“My Air Force buddies kind of laugh at me when I tell them I’m going to use my vacation time to work at a fireworks stand, but it’s something I enjoy doing,” he said.



Groups stress safety



By Adam Smith

The North Jefferson News



While fireworks are illegal throughout most of north Jefferson County, many residents will purchase and discharge the seasonal favorites, despite the legal and health risks.

The sale and use of all forms of fireworks is prohibited in the cities of Kimberly, Gardendale and Fultondale. The cities of Warrior and Morris allow for the use of sparklers, firecrackers and similar fireworks.

Fred Berry of Fireworks Unlimited in Warrior said all fireworks are safe if the user follows instructions.

“People get hurt through misuse,” he said. “If you bought a gun and gave it to a child to play with, he’s eventually going to get hurt or hurt someone else. Parents buy fireworks for their kids and turn them loose and that’s not right.”

In recent findings released by the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks caused an estimated 32,600 reported fires, including 1,700 total structure fires, 600 vehicle fires, and 30,300 outdoor and other fires in 2006. The group also recently issued a press release advising against the use of consumer fireworks.

“Consumer fireworks are too dangerous and simply can’t be used safety,” said James M. Shannon, president of NFPA. “Each year, around 10,000 people are treated in emergency rooms because of consumer fireworks, a product that is used legally in most states across the country.”

The Gardendale Fire Department recently issued a press release aimed at preventing fires and injuries related to fireworks. The department lists the following tips:

• The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public fireworks displays put on by professionals who know how to safely handle fireworks.

• Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.

• Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby. Know how to operate the fire extinguisher properly.

• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks.

• Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a devise does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it.

• Always read the directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a devise is not marked with the contents, direction and a warning label, do not light it.

• Supervise children around fireworks at all times.