In celebration of Independence Day, fireworks are one way to boost the spirits of viewers and participants. At night, the sky fills with bright colors and crowds cheer at the display.
Safety is an important part of using fireworks and enjoying the holiday. Since California prohibits the use of fireworks inside city limits, residents may attend the fireworks show Thursday at Proctor Park or discharge individual fireworks outside of the city.
About five years ago, Kristy and Jason Gatlin opened a fireworks stand at 26658 Missouri 87. The couple caters to youth and is big on keeping users safe.
To light fireworks, the sellers recommend using a lighting tool that gives more distance than a lighter and stays lit for a long period of time.
"You always want adult supervision if you have kids," Jason said. "Fireworks, no matter what firework that you have, they can be dangerous if not handled properly."
Other tips include having a barrier between the fireworks and viewers and shooting off one firework at a time.
Caleb Bleich operates Bleich's Fireworks at 57195 Lookout Trail. A percentage of injuries can be avoided by keeping fireworks out of your hand, unless directed, he said.
"Younger kids don't have a lot of business setting them off themselves," Bleich said.
No fireworks should be aimed at an individual or lit near property.
"Use the fireworks as instructed, and you'll have a safe Fourth (of July)," Bleich said.
Three years ago, Bleich, a California High School alum, began selling fireworks to help pay his college tuition. With plans to graduate from University of Missouri in the spring, this year's sales will also go toward law school.
"I buy all of these myself; that way, I mark the prices down," Bleich said. "I'm kind of far out, so having the cheapest prices is the only way to get people out here."
His biggest sellers are tractors, chickens and camouflage items.
When the Gatlin family approached a stand one year with their four children, they were shocked to find the sparklers sold out.
Afterward, they set out to have their own stand to provide good prices and plenty of child items for customers. This year, they purchased more than 4,000 sparklers.
"We wanted to make sure they were reasonable prices to be able to accommodate families with lots of kids, too," Kristy said.
Both California High School staff members, they said the Gatlin's Boombox Fireworks adventure is a good summer money maker. The stand offers discounts to teachers, students, military and others.
Before purchasing a supply, the family attends a firework expo to see the colorful smoke or big bang an item presents. They also test the items, including their most popular child item, a dog that releases a surprise when lit.
Both stands are open all day July 4.