Some cities have fireworks bans; officials urge extreme caution because of drought

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Michael Levinson and Robin Davis buy sparklers from Rosemary Wilkinson, who is a cashier at Insane McCain Fireworks in Warrior. Undaunted by the drought that has swept across Alabama, people still plan to have fun for the Fourth of July. However, caution should be used and local laws should be observed regarding the use of fireworks. Nathan Prewett

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July 3, 2012

Some cities have fireworks bans; officials urge extreme caution because of drought

By Nathan Prewett North Jefferson News The North Jefferson News Tue Jul 03, 2012, 11:59 AM CDT

NORTH JEFFERSON — This year a drought has swept Alabama leading up to the Fourth of July. In some communities fireworks are OK to go while in others it’s not.

Town halls in Morris, Kimberly and Warrior have issued no ordinances against the use of fireworks or fireworks display. However, Fultondale and Gardendale have both disallowed fireworks being used within city limits.

An example of the potential danger of fireworks is a brush fire that started Saturday night in Gardendale’s Lexington Park subdivision. Fire Chief Clint Doss said the blaze was likely caused by fireworks; neighbors reported hearing fireworks shortly before the fire. Firefighters were able to put it out quickly and nobody was hurt.

Most of the state is under abnormal and moderate dryness ranges, according to the National Weather Service, including Jefferson County.

During dry seasons fireworks can be potentially dangerous, as they can cause wildfires if used close to wooded areas. The National Council on Fireworks Safety advises everyone to use them exclusively outdoors, keep a safe distance, obey local laws, don’t to altar or combine a firework, don’t relight a dud, and always have a bucket of water handy.

Randy Christian of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has issued a statement encouraging safety.

“My deputies will be patrolling our neighborhoods and communities to ensure people are using fireworks in a safe and responsible fashion,” he said in the statement. “Be safe. Call us if you need us.”

Christian’s statement cited State Law Section 8-17-222 concerning use of fireworks. It is illegal to sell them to people under 16 unless a parent is present. People using them will need to have a valid I.D. There are strict rules against the use of fireworks near certain buildings.

“It shall be unlawful to explode or ignite fireworks within 600 feet of any church, hospital, asylum, public school, any enclosed building, or within 200 feet of where fireworks are stored, sold, or offered for sale,” the law states.

It also states that it is illegal to buy or use fireworks while intoxicated. They should never be thrown out of or into a vehicle or at other people.

For more information on fireworks safety, visit www.fireworksafety.com.

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Some cities have fireworks bans; officials urge extreme caution because of drought

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