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Rules For The Safe Enjoyment Of Fireworks

1. Use common sense and obey the law:

• Do not discharge fireworks within 600 feet of any enclosed building.
• Do not shoot fireworks into or from a motor vehicle.
• Do not shoot fireworks toward people.
• Alabama fireworks laws make each the above activities illegal.

2. Children below the age of 16 must be supervised by an adult when using fireworks. Children below the age of 14 should not handle fireworks.

• Fireworks can be a source of great family entertainment, but they burn very hot.
• They are not intended to be handled by children.

3. Use fireworks in a clear, open area with an ample water supply and fire extinguisher on hand.

• Use fireworks only outdoors in a clear area away from flammables and combustibles, buildings, vehicles, and people. The word combustible implies dry grass, leaves, paper, and anything that will easily catch fire and burn.
• In dry times, always wet the area where you plan to shoot fireworks.

4. Use fireworks on a hard, flat surface.

• Always light fireworks on a hard, flat, and level surface to insure stability. Grass will not support items, nor provide the stability necessary to shoot fireworks in a safe manner.

5. Use care in lighting the fireworks and keep clear of the fireworks.

• Always light fireworks products with a punk (slow burning device available from fireworks dealers), flare, or extended butane lighting device. This will enable you to keep as far from the firework item as possible during the lighting process.
• Never hold lighted firework items in your hand and never look into a tube to check on a firework item.
• When lighting fireworks at night use a flashlight to illuminate the fuse and make the proper ignition possible. Light the fireworks item and get away quickly.
• Respect the fireworks, because if improperly used, they are dangerous.

6. Do not use malfunctioning or “dud” Items.

• Never attempt to re-light, alter or fix any firework item that does not ignite. Let the item stand at least five minutes and then immerse the item in water.

7. Use care in handling and storing fireworks.

• Never carry fireworks in your pockets or on your person.
• Keep fireworks away from open flames and heat or spark producing appliances.
• Fireworks should be stored in a cool, dry place.
• Never store fireworks in your bedroom or in any means of egress in your home.

8. Wear safe clothing and safety glasses.

• Wear clothing made from fabric that is flame resistant and will not melt.
• Safety glasses are recommended for those individuals who light the fireworks.

9. Do not use alcohol while enjoying fireworks.

• Please do not consume alcohol while handling fireworks. If you are impaired in any way when you use fireworks, you increase the possibilities of misuse and injury to yourself and others.

10. Pay attention to the weather conditions.

• In addition to dry weather, we must consider wind when enjoying fireworks. A shift in the wind or an increase in wind speed can adversely affect fireworks.
• Any change in the weather that increases the danger from our fireworks must be considered and the use of fireworks must stop if conditions worsen to the point that we cannot safely enjoy the fireworks.