Staff photo by Clay Schuldt The TNT Fireworks tent in the Wal-Mart parking lot is once again operated by Ann and Curt Miller. Firework sales are going steady this holiday season, but supplies could fizzle out before the Fourth.

NEW ULM — Independence Day is an explosive weekend for firework sales and the local fireworks stand is preparing for a rush.

For the last few years Curt and Ann Miller, along with the rest of their family, have operated the TNT Fireworks stand from the Wal-Mart parking lot.

The Miller family is back in 2021, though this year firework sellers are feeling the impact of the pandemic.

The COVID pandemic cut into the supply chain. Ann Miller said their inventory is smaller as a result. Oddly enough, last year during the height of the pandemic, the supply of firework products was not hit hard, but in 2021, as the country is reopening, the impact to the firework business is being felt.

Despite the smaller inventory, the TNT stand is still able to offer a wide variety of products, but certain items are starting to sell out. Anne said one of their most popular items was a medium-size firework shell, but it has sold out already.

The Centennial Fireworks is still in stock and very popular. This set of fireworks is intended to be set off last as the end of show display. The Centennial was only introduced last year but is already a favorite in the industry.

Curt said the “Delirium” firework is a classic that has remained popular for 15 years. The Delirium fires off a fountain of colorful roman, candle-style torches and sparklers.

There is a firework for every interest. Curt said the Sparkle Berry shell was unicorn-themed and popular with young girls. Boys tended to gravitate toward the Large Mouth Bass, but Curt said there was one young girl who loved fishing and went for the fish-themed firework.

Curt said in previous years they sold a large firework called Purple Rain and it sold extremely well following Prince’s death. A smaller version of Purple Rain is still available.

Historically, July 3 and July 4 are the busiest days for TNT Fireworks. Ann said sales usually start slow for the first few days and pick up as the Fourth of July holiday hits, but this year was different.

“We started out with steady sales and it has remained steady,” Ann Miller said. “I am kind of curious as to what happens on July 3 and July 4.”

There are no set hours at the TNT Fireworks stand but Curt said they usually sell from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. over Independence Day weekend. He said if people are willing to buy and they still have products, they will keep selling. Depending on supplies they may continue selling through July 5.

Those planning to buy fireworks are encouraged to buy while supplies last.

Fireworks users are encouraged to use them with caution, and to be aware of dry conditions in the area, where a stray spark could start a grass fire.

The Red Cross offers the following Fireworks safety tips:

“The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a public firework show put on by professionals – and stay at least 500 feet away from the show,” said Phil Hansen, Regional Executive Director, American Red Cross Minnesota and Dakotas Region. “If you are setting fireworks off at home, follow local regulations, including current wildfire risks.” Stay safe by following these tips:

• Never give fireworks to small children, and never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.

• Always follow the instructions on the packaging.

• Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.

• Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.

• Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight a “dud.”

• Soak unused or wasted fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding.

• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.