What to know before lighting fireworks in your neighborhood this Fourth of July

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) - With Fourth of July celebrations beginning, local officials are urging residents to understand their city’s fireworks laws before lighting up the night sky.

While fireworks may be a holiday tradition, using them without knowing the rules could end in more than just a fizzle — it could lead to fines or even a visit from law enforcement.

Fireworks laws vary widely across central Alabama. In cities like Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and Hoover, personal use of fireworks is completely illegal. That means no sparklers, bottle rockets, or backyard shows.

But just a few miles away, the rules change.

In Center Point, for example, residents can use fireworks, but with caution.

Center Point Fire Chief Brandon Dahlen says the safest bet is to check before you light. That could mean reading through your city’s website, checking social media for announcements, or calling the local non-emergency number.

“Know those ordinances, know those rules and laws so that you are within them, have the knowledge in case law enforcement were to show up or something went wrong so that you would not later be found that you are violating an ordinance or a law,” Dahlen said.

Dahlen also reminds everyone to celebrate responsibly. He strongly advises against handling fireworks while intoxicated. Children should never be allowed to light fireworks, and keeping a water source nearby is a must.

But his most important tip? Know where your fireworks are going, because a single misfire can quickly turn a celebration into an emergency.

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