BROOKHAVEN — Firework stands are popping up and sales should start flowing soon as July 4 weekend is about a week away. Rain may have dampened business so far but high school student Sawyer Shoop believes they will start to pick up soon. 

He is running the Hale Fireworks stand on Dunn-Ratcliff, right before you would turn right on Cade Lane NW, this summer. They open at 8 a.m. and close around 11 p.m. to 12 a.m. depending on the day. 

“We haven’t gotten much business yet but we have only been open for two days. I’m sure it will pick up,” Shoop said. “We have one main customer who comes in here and he will get two of everything.” 

Personally, he loves the thunder snaps, two inch long red poppers you throw on the ground, and the artillery shells. Shoop said he has helped with the firework stand since he was a kid. Hale Fireworks takes cash or card and has bundles for people to save money. 

Robbie’s Fireworks on US84 just past Cowart Lane is experiencing the same challenges. Sales have been slow but it is still early, manager Jimmy Barrow said. 

“The closer we get the more sales will pick up,” he said. “We have a lot of new items we didn’t have in years past. I’m the same guy who has been here with a tent for the past ten years.” 

Robbie’s Fireworks is in a brick and mortar building and is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Being in a building they have more space for more products.. This year they have some new products such as the Who Rules the World and IPA Four Pack, a finale pack.

Barrow said they built the building last fall and it has helped with the sales. It also helps with securing the fireworks. 

“The fireworks are more secure, they stay dry and you don’t have to worry about your shoes being wet in a tent,” he said. 

People hoping to use fireworks to celebrate July Fourth should follow these safety tips. 

• Observe local laws. Fireworks are legal in the county, but not in the city.
• Use common sense and always read and follow the directions on each firework.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Buy from reliable fireworks sellers. Store them in a cool, dry place.
• Always have an adult present when shooting fireworks.
• Put used fireworks in a bucket of water and have a hose ready.
• Only use fireworks outdoors, away from homes, dry grass and trees.
• Light only one item at a time and keep a safe distance.
• Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
• Never reignite malfunctioning fireworks.
• Never give fireworks to small children.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.