I don't know much about fireworks - they were totally illegal in NC when I was a child, and only a few types are legal now, except in licensed and approved shows. Sparklers are now legal in NC, but we live near the state line, so a lot of people have always driven over to buy them, and many still buy the illegal types as well. Since some sorts of sparklers have been used in Icelandic demos, I thought some people might like to read this seasonal news report on the dangers - even sparklers can cause third degree burns. There is a little video clip on this page too, provided by a nearby town's fire department. http://www.wsoctv.com/news/13621821/detail.html
When I was a child, firecrackers killed a neighbor's kid, a year older than me,, when something went awry, and they exploded inside his jacket where he had them hidden. He was not burned, but somehow the shock of the explosion stopped his heart. That always took the fun out of the whole idea of firecrackers for me. I'm sure these were probably not just sparklers, but I'll never forget how that devastated the neighborhood and especially his family. Happy holidays - and be safe. Karen Thomas, NC
