Dothan, Ala. (WDNews) – As Independence Day approaches, Dothan police are reminding residents that fireworks are illegal within city limits and anyone caught using them could face a citation.
Officers with the Dothan Police Department will be actively patrolling throughout the holiday weekend and responding to complaints involving illegal fireworks.
“For those readers who may legally use fireworks at their home (again, this is no one in the City Limits of Dothan!!), we would like to encourage safety first,” officials said.
According to the National Council on Fireworks Safety, here are some important safety tips for those using fireworks in areas where it is legal:
- Use fireworks outdoors only.
- Always obey local laws.
- Keep water nearby – a hose or bucket works best.
- Never alter or combine fireworks.
- Don’t try to relight a dud – wait 20 minutes, then soak it.
- Keep a safe distance, and shooters should wear safety glasses.
- Never mix alcohol and fireworks – have a designated shooter.
- Children under 12 should not handle sparklers.
- Never use homemade or illegal explosives.
- The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) also warns sparklers alone can reach temperatures of 1,200°F—hot enough to melt glass and cause serious burns.
Fire officials encourage the public to enjoy professional shows instead of using consumer fireworks.
