For Immediate Release: June 22, 2022

Alexandria Fire Department wants to keep you, your family, and your pets safe during your Fourth of July celebrations. The Alexandria Fire Department is reminding those who visit, live and work in the City of Alexandria that it’s illegal to possess, sell, store, or use any fireworks within the city limits – including sparklers, novelty items, or any fireworks that can be otherwise legally purchased in neighboring jurisdictions.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) analysis, 18 people died from non-occupational fireworks incidents in the U.S. in 2020, compared to the 12 people who died in 2019. In total, between 2005 and 2020, there have been 136 deaths from the misuse of fireworks in total or 8.5 deaths per year on average. In 2020, an estimated 15,600 people required emergency room treatment in U.S. hospitals due to accidents involving fireworks. More than half of these incidents occurred during Fourth of July weekend.

 “The Fourth of July is approaching, and we encourage the community to celebrate safely. Our Fire Marshal’s Office remains diligent to ensure the safety of the community and to protect people, businesses and property, they will enforce the City’s ban on all fireworks used within city limits,” said Fire Chief Corey Smedley.

Alexandria residents can enjoy the beauty of fireworks at City-sponsored events, such as the City Birthday celebration scheduled for Saturday, July 9, or First Night Alexandria. Additionally, there are many local displays in surrounding localities throughout the Independence Day holiday weekend. For information on City events, call 703.746.5592 or 703.746.5418.

Fireworks violations are Class 1 misdemeanors and may be punishable by a $2,500 fine, 12 months in jail or both. Fireworks violations may be reported 24 hours a day by calling 703.746.4444. For immediate police, fire, or emergency medical assistance, call 911.

For media inquiries only, contact Senior Public Information Officer Raytevia Evans, at raytevia.evans@alexandriva.gov or 703.746.5190.

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This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/go/3710.