Fireworks allowed on the Fourth

By Cassandra Mickens (Contact) | Alabaster Reporter

Published Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Alabaster residents are allowed to shoot fireworks this Fourth of July, said Fire Marshal Skip Leslie.

“We don’t have an ordinance against fireworks,” Leslie said. “We just hope people use good judgment and have water around when they do shoot them.”

The city banned fireworks in previous years due to severe drought conditions. Leslie urges citizens to exercise extreme caution during their respective celebrations.

Other safety tips include:

Use fireworks outdoors only.

Always have water handy (a hose or bucket).

Only use fireworks as intended. Don’t try to alter them or combine them.

Never re-light a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.

Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a “designated shooter.”

Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.

Do not use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives. Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department.

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