If your July 4th celebration includes the rocket's red glare, there are some things you need to know to keep your holiday festivities safe and legal.
Lighting your own fireworks is generally illegal in the state's incorporated towns and cities; fireworks are legal in most unincorporated areas. Some areas also have time restrictions limiting the period you can use personal fireworks. Your local police or sheriff's department can you tell you about your particular area.
There are separate laws - and permits - related to large-scale fireworks displays, such as those used as part of a city celebration.
Even in areas where personal fireworks are allowed, state laws dictate their use. Almost all types of fireworks are allowed to be sold, except those that have more two-grains of explosives or those purchased via mail order.
Fireworks can't be sold to anyone younger than 16 unless they are accompanied by an adult or to someone who appears intoxicated or "irresponsible." Alabama law also requires anyone purchasing fireworks to show a driver's license or other identification card.
Other fireworks laws apply, too. It's illegal to explode fireworks within 600 feet of any church, hospital, asylum, public school or enclosed building, or within 200 feet of where fireworks are stored or sold. It's also illegal to ignite or discharge a firework inside a car or to throw one from a moving vehicle or at a group of people.
It's illegal to sell fireworks out a tent or car, too.
Individuals found to be violating the fireworks laws could receive a citation and fine of up to $500.
Safety tips
If fireworks are legal in your area, the Alabama Department of Public Health has some safety tips:
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
- Discuss safety procedures with children, including teaching them to "stop, drop and roll."
- Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
- Never aim or throw fireworks at another person.
- Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials.
- Never try to relight fireworks that have not fully functioned.
- Keep a bucket of water nearby in case of a malfunction or fire.