Fireworks Stands Prep for Customers Despite Burn Bans

Burn bans in effect from Northwest Arkansas to the River Valley could hurt Fourth of July plans. Fireworks stands prepare for business anyway.

“We just about got every kind of firecracker there is,” said Alan Beaird, a fireworks tent operator.

Beaird’s family manages a tent on Highway 64 between Alma and Van Buren. He said, “I just love blowing things up. I really do.”

Beaird served in the United States Marine Corps. He got into the fireworks business about 16 to 17 years ago. “I’ve always liked seeing stuff go boom” he said.

The whole family pitches in this time of year. Beaird’s father-in-law, nicknamed “Bargain Papa,” gives customers the deals they want. “We’ll try to give you the best deal we can,” said Dallas Allen.

Sales start slow. A fireworks tent in Fayetteville is still empty.

Burn bans are in effect in Madison, Franklin, Johnson, and Logan County. Beaird says burn bans do not usually affect their business. “We warn people you know about the dangers of stuff like that,” he said.

The Beards are ready for a busy few weeks. “We just gotta hook the lights up and put the product out,” said Allen.

There is a red flag warning in effect for Washington County. Officials are asking people not to burn outside until conditions improve.

Right now 25 Arkansas counties are under a burn ban because of the dry conditions. The Arkansas Forestry Commission says bans will not be lifted until a significant amount of rain falls.