Firework sales bounce back after last year's slump


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SALT LAKE CITY — Each summer, fireworks season gives a much-needed boost to Utah's economy. Last summer, the tremendous wildfires snuffed out the mood and the profits of those small business owners. But a year makes a big difference.

There's a little kick people seem to get from setting off their own fireworks. At a fireworks stand in West Jordan, Wade Stinson spent about $20 for a private shower of sparks for his family.

"We bought some flowers, we bought some pop-its and quite a few fountains," Stinson said.

His purchase is part of a comeback from last year, which seller Lisa Davis called a "disaster," the worst year ever for her business.

"It's hard," Davis said. "I was going to go out there and stand with a sign and say 'Will sell fireworks for food.' I was going to do that because I have seven kids."

It may have been the economy that forced such slow sales, but most in the industry blame 2012's early and devastating fire season for dousing normally explosive sales. In Utah, millions of dollars were spent dousing the flames while hundreds of homes were threatened and evacuated, several of which were lost.

Ironically, none of the worst fires were started by fireworks.

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The comeback has benefited Matt's Blackcat Fireworks stand in Sandy. He's sold out of some items temporarily. But he said sales of the small aerial fireworks are skyrocketing, much different than last year.

"It was horrible, it was absolutely horrible," Shadle said. "I know people who went out of business because of it. Let's face it, last year we had all these fires going on, fires and fireworks, it gives fireworks a bad name."

Jennifer Nielsen dropped $100 Friday, unlike the smoky hot nights last year.

"I think it played the biggest part in it. I really do. Just fear, like you're going to lose your house," Nielsen said.

Some stands for the whole season, but fireworks can only be lit three days before and after July 4 and July 27.

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