Lincoln Countians who want to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks may not want to wait until the last minute to buy them.

The United States is facing a fireworks shortage this summer. According to national media reports, “The fireworks industry warns that supply ahead of Independence Day will be down about 30% this year due to supply chain issues.”

Since firework shows were a socially distanced activity during the summer of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the firework demand was extremely high across the nation. This year’s summer is being affected, as fireworks cannot be made and shipped out fast enough to retailers. Major new sources are encouraging people to shop early to get what they need.

Robbie’s Fireworks is the largest firework retailer in the state of Mississippi, according to manager Jimmy Barrow. The giant inflatable gorilla on Highway 84 welcomes area revelers to stop by and get all their firework needs from their location.

“Our busiest days are the Fourth and Dec. 31,” says Barrow, who has been managing the Brookhaven stand for nine years. They plan to be open everyday for the town to stock up on all their firework needs for the Fourth of July weekend. Barrow says he expects business to pick up as the week progresses.

The Brookhaven City Clerk Office reminds everyone that it is illegal to shoot fireworks inside city limits without a permit. Senator Jason Barrett, Representative Becky Currie and Representative Vincent Mangold are hosting a fireworks show at the Lincoln County Civic Center on Sunday, July 4, at 9 p.m.

In the county, fireworks are allowed, but it is encouraged that safety is maintained.

Pets are usually known for not reacting well to the excitement of fireworks. The loud noises, lights and crowded areas have been known to create a lot of anxiety for animals.

Dr. Kellen Choate at Brookhaven Animal Hospital encourages these tips to ensure a comfortable holiday for your pet.

“It’s their instinct to run when they get scared, and that’s when they can get lost or hit by a car. That’s why it’s good to be prepared,” she said.

• Most importantly, ensure that pets are wearing current identification tags, and make sure your current contact information is recorded with the vet clinic or shelter that implanted the microchip.

• Bring all pets indoors whenever fireworks displays are likely, making sure that any potentially harmful food or alcohol is kept out of reach.

• Secure pets in a room or kennel, and play loud music or turn on the television to drown out the frightening sounds. 

• Keep pets away from lit fireworks at all times, including your own backyard, as some will chase after the bright moving objects and are at risk to be burned or blinded in the process.

• If your dog already has a history of anxiety, talk to your vet about getting proper medications to help them remain calm or sleep well.

• Have a plan in place in case your pet does go missing that includes calling and visiting the local shelter and posting information about your missing pet on platforms such as Facebook

Story by Emmaline Wolfe.