HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — July 4th is this Thursday and many people may be looking to light up the night sky with fireworks. However, it's important to know a few things before doing so, including the law.
"In the city of Huntsville, in the city of Madison, you're not allowed to let off fireworks," says Monrovia Volunteer Fire and Rescue Lt. James Filley.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission said in their 2023 Annual Firework Report 9,700 were treated in ERs for firework injuries. 66% of those came in the weeks before and after July 4th last year. 44% of those injuries were burns.
Filley says, "I just want to make sure that everybody has a safe 4th of July and everybody enjoys it."
So how can you have a safe 4th of July while still enjoying some fireworks?
1. Have a water source nearby.
Local officials recommend having a water bucket, hose, or fire extinguisher nearby in case a firework decides to go rogue.
2. Make sure there's enough light to see a fuse.
Because the fuse is sometimes small, it can be hard to lose track of. Decatur Fire and Rescue Community Risk Reduction Officer Brandon Sivley says, "Make sure you're using the proper sticks to ignite the fireworks with and then, of course, make sure you're in a well-lit area so you can see the fuse."
3. Only responsible adults should be using fireworks.
"Fireworks are intended to be used by adults only," says Huntsville Fire and Rescue Fire Marshal Dan Wilkerson. "If an adult is partaking in any kind of prescription medicine or alcohol, they shouldn't be using fireworks either."
4. Be respectful to your neighbors.
It goes without saying fireworks are loud and could be a disturbance to those trying to get a good night's rest. Wilkerson recommends to not set off fireworks past 9:30P.M.