Huntsville public safety officials remind community about firework dangers

Published on June 30, 2022

The Huntsville Police Department (HPD), Huntsville Fire & Rescue (HFR) and Huntsville Animal Services (HAS) are urging the community to practice firework safety ahead of the upcoming Fourth of July holiday.

With July Fourth quickly approaching, HPD expects to receive hundreds of calls for service about illegal fireworks or possible shots fired.

“These calls can detract from officers being able to respond to emergencies in the City of Huntsville,” HPD Interim Chief Kirk Giles said. “Fireworks are also very dangerous and can cause injury or damage property. As a reminder, it is against the law to use, sell or possess fireworks within the city limits of Huntsville.”

Many fireworks stores sell both commercial and recreational fireworks. To use commercial fireworks, citizens must obtain a special permit. Recreational fireworks are also hazardous and often unpredictable.

“Fireworks can scare or disturb your neighbors or other members of the community,” HFR Chief Mac McFarlen added. “We encourage everyone to celebrate the holiday safely. If you’d like to enjoy fireworks, please consider attending a City-sanctioned event conducted by professionals.”

Visit Huntsville.org/Events for a list of public July 4th fireworks celebrations and holiday events

HAS Director Dr. Karen Sheppard also urged the public to think about animals, which can be easily frightened by loud noises.

“Fireworks are not beautiful to pets,” she said. “Let’s make this Fourth of July safe for them by having your pet secure inside your home or garage well before dark.”

Huntsville Animal Services also reminds pet owners to attach their pets’ current identification tag to their collar or to microchip their pets.

To report illegal fireworks, please call HPD’s non-emergency number at 256-722-7100.

The City of Huntsville hopes everyone has a safe and happy Independence Day.