Firework safety 101
Published 8:26 pm Thursday, July 2, 2009
Say Fourth of July and you might as well say fireworks.
But with the pleasure of these incendiary devices comes a lot of responsibility, according to the Rev. Gary Crum, pastor of Ellwood Community Church and owner of Discount Fireworks on U.S. Highway 80.
“Parents should take in consideration the age of a child when buying fireworks,” Crum said. “The state of Alabama laws requires the age of 16 to purchase them.”
The pastor talked about other rules. Never point or throw fireworks at another person; never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them in metal or glass containers; observe local laws; follow the label directions; wear eye protection; have water handy, especially in dry weather, and just use common sense.
The use of fireworks in Selma and the police jurisdiction is illegal, Crum said. Residents of Selma will have to go outside the police jurisdiction.
No matter the limitations, firework sales are brisk.
“I guess it’s the glitter and the glamour that makes the celebration so meaningful, especially this time of year,” Crum said.
Discount Fireworks will sponsor Taylorville’s Fourth of July fireworks show. Dr. Bruce Taylor and the City of Selma have teamed this year to present the festivities out on U.S. Highway 80.
“I’m really excited about this,” Taylor said. “It will do a lot for us and for the city.”