As investigators try and find out why a fatal blast occurred during the set up of a fireworks display on Ocracoke Island the new state fire Marshall has discovered there's a gap in the law regarding the detonation of pyrotechnics.

“There are no minimum training requirements for persons to operate fireworks in North Carolina,’’ said state Fire Marshal Wayne Goodwin.

In looking at the state statutes regarding pyrotechnic displays, the newly elected fire marshal discovered anyone is allowed to set them off.

“I was shocked to find that out,” he said.

Like many others, Goodwin assumed pyrotechnic professionals were held to a certain standard.

“Now we find out that the folks who purport to be professionals have no necessary training or requirements. Some may have them through their company, but there’s no state guidelines,” said Goodwin.

The only thing the statute requires is a local permit be obtained from county commissioners with co-operation from the local Fire Marshall.

That has spurred Goodwin to look at changes.

“I have directed my staff at the state Fire Marshall and department of insurance to survey what other states do,” he explained.

Goodwin says he wants the General Assembly to enact a law setting up new standards for these who operate pyrotechnic displays and he intends to give lawmakers plenty of information so they can create a good statute.

“I want to get input from as many professionals as possible like our fire and rescue community, from law enforcement and from other fire marshals on the county level as well as across the country.” he said.

Goodwin says he intends to have his proposed legislation ready to present to law makers early next year so that they can set up a study committee to look at it before the 2010 General Assembly session begins.