Firework stands across the Lowcountry are experiencing a surge in business as the July 4 holiday approaches. One such stand, Hippie Grippie Fireworks, has been serving customers on Redbank Road near Goose Creek High School for nearly 50 years. They combine sales for both New Year’s Eve and the Fourth of July, amounting to 95 total seasons of operation. Grippie Lawson III expressed that their business is family-run, with multiple family members operating various stands.
Every fireworks holiday, the family opens their stand for business, emphasizing the importance of safety when using fireworks. They advise against holding any fireworks in your hands, with the exception of sparklers. Lawson stresses that safety is paramount and urges customers to prioritize it over all else. He also offers a no-dud guarantee and encourages customers to pour water on any malfunctioning fireworks instead of risking injury.
Chief Bob Maibach of the Goose Creek Rural Fire Department has witnessed the consequences of unsafe firework practices firsthand. He warns against storing fireworks in pockets and allowing young children access to them, as this can result in injuries such as burns. Maibach advises individuals to exercise caution and use common sense when setting off fireworks to avoid accidents.
For those who prefer to watch fireworks displays rather than setting them off themselves, there are several July 4 celebrations happening across the area. By attending these events, individuals can enjoy the festivities in a safe and controlled environment.