CLARKSVILLE, TN − As the Fourth of July approaches, Clarksville Fire Rescue and the City of Clarksville urge residents to familiarize themselves with local fireworks ordinances, state laws, and fireworks safety.
Clarksville Fire Rescue Fire Prevention officers are tasked with inspecting all temporary fireworks tents spread around the City of Clarksville. The tents are permitted to sell fireworks from June 20 to July 5.
When and where can I shoot off fireworks?
In Clarksville, in accordance with City code Sec 10-218, fireworks may be exploded, fired, shot or set off inside the city limits from July 1-5 between the hours of 6-10 p.m.
Except for City-conducted or sponsored events, it is unlawful for any person, organization, group or entity to possess, use, explode, fire, shoot or set off any type of fireworks from within any City Park, recreational facility or property.
Also, it is unlawful for any person under 16 to use, explode or possess any fireworks unless they are under the direct supervision of an adult at least 18.
Across Tennessee, it is unlawful to explode or ignite fireworks within 600 feet of any church, hospital, asylum, public school or within 200 feet of where fireworks are stored, sold or offered for sale.
Additionally, no person may ignite or discharge any fireworks within or throw any articles of fireworks from a motor vehicle or throw any ignited article of fireworks into or at a motor vehicle, or at or near any person or group of people.
Safety tips
- Know your fireworks. Read the labels and understand the specifications before igniting.
- A responsible adult, 18 or older, should oversee and ensure the proper use of fireworks.
- Wear proper safety gear, such as safety glasses and gloves, when shooting fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time and then move away.
- Ensure fireworks are used outdoors in a clear area away from buildings, cars, or other potential hazards. Keep away from dry grass, brush, leaves, and flammable substances.
- Have a bucket of water, charged water hose, or fire extinguisher nearby.
- Don’t relight a dud firework. Soak the firework in a bucket of water overnight to ensure proper safety.
- Fireworks should not be carried in your pocket or shot from metal or glass containers.
- Spent fireworks can still be a fire hazard, so wet them down and place them in a metal trash can away from a building or combustible materials.
- Be extra careful with sparklers. They can reach temperatures over 1,200 degrees. Children should not handle sparklers.
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Independence Day celebration
Clarksville Parks & Recreation, along with co-sponsors the City of Clarksville and Montgomery County, will host their annual Independence Day Celebration at Liberty Park on July 3 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Live music begins at 6 p.m. and fireworks start at dark.
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