WILKES-BARRE, Pa. — People are stocking up on more than just the cookout essentials this Fourth of July, as even the youngest customers are picking out their favorite fireworks at Keystone Fireworks in Wilkes-Barre.
"Mommy, I want this," said a little boy.
"I think it's a huge novelty. It's the time to get together with your family and friends, have a barbeque- eat some good food, watch some pretty colors, and hear some loud noises," said Delaware Smith, Assistant Manager of the Carey Avenue location.
It's Keystone Fireworks' busy season and people are taking full advantage of all the stock on the shelves.
"People are allowed to buy the 200 grams, the 500 gram cakes, the mortars. The mortars are huge this year everyone is looking for that loud explosion," said Smith.
Pennsylvania has a number of fireworks state laws, one stating you need to be 150 feet from a building.
Wilkes-Barre city fire officials say there's nowhere within city limits that meets that requirement- making it illegal to shoot off fireworks- anywhere in Wilkes-Barre.
"When they light that off of the ground, there's no telling where it will go. Two years ago, we had two houses that caught on fire," said Fire Chief Jay Delaney.
To crack down, the city is taking extra precautions this year, with more staffing for the fire department and emergency services.
"Our emergency responders are already over-taxed. So you're going to send them to an even higher level with the potential for trauma burn injuries, fires, and the illegal parts that come with this. So, give the first responders a break this Fourth of July season, says Delaney.
But if you do have a legal spot to go the home route, Keystone Fireworks is also making sure their customers remain safe this holiday.
"We have these little pamphlets that have all of the Pennsylvania firework laws and safety tips on there as well; make sure everything is on a flat surface; give yourself plenty of room," says Smith.
As officials are keeping safety top of mind, they say it's important to be safe this time of year, especially when you add alcohol into the mix. They're also adding a reminder that fireworks aren't beloved by everyone, as the explosives can often be triggering for veterans and animals.