Many enjoy the spectacle of the night sky lit up with fireworks displays. Local fireworks businesses are busy as people stock up for the holiday. 

State and local officials are issuing the standard warning of the dangers that accompany the annual salute to America's independence. 

At Dixie Lee Fireworks on Kingston Pike near the Knox County line, the fireworks business is definitely booming in the days leading up to the Fourth of July weekend, according to owner Deanna Sharp. 

"Sales are up," she said.

Other than the traditional bottle rockets and other small explosives, Sharp said consumers are buying the products that look similar to the bigger fireworks that can be viewed at professional pyrotechnic shows.

"We do a big family business and they like the reloadable shells and 500-gram cakes," she said.

The reloadable shells are ball-shaped fireworks that are lit and fired from a freestanding tube.

They then shoot into the air more than 100 feet before exploding in an array of light and color. 

A 500-gram cake is a brick of fireworks that is lit one time, and then shoots off a display of multiple explosives.

Loudon County Sheriff Tim Guider said this holiday is usually not that hard on his department other than noise complaints when the fireworks go on too late.

"We will answer after 10 p.m. which is normal. Traditionally it's not been a huge problem," he said. Most wounds on July 4th are self inflicted. He said he urges everyone to "be safe, be responsible in their activities" like shooting off fireworks, driving or boating.

"Don't mix alcohol when driving a boat or a car or for shooting fireworks. Use good judgement." he said.

Guider also said that while fireworks are legal to buy, shoot and sell (with a permit) in the county that's not the case in Lenoir City. "It's a mixture of laws up there, you can buy them but you can't shoot them," he said. 

While everyone might enjoy the annual show it's important to remember while fireworks may look harmless they are actual mini-explosives and should be treated as such. 

• The state fire marshal's office is urging everyone to be careful. They recommend several safety tips:

• Never allow children to handle or ignite fireworks.

• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.

• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.

• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from homes, dry leaves, and flammable materials.

• Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.

• Keep a bucket of water and a garden hose nearby in case of a malfunction or fire.

• Like matches and lighters, sparklers are not toys and cause hundreds of injuries every year. Sparklers burn hot, can reach temperatures as high as 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, and stay hot long after they've burned out. 

• Fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries. 

A 2007 law prevents children under 16 from purchasing fireworks and those who are age 16 or 17 must present a photo ID to purchase them.