City of Alexandria Reminder: Use or Sale of Fireworks Illegal

It may be the Fourth of July weekend, but the City of Alexandria wants to remind those who visit, live and work in the City of Alexandria that it is unlawful for any person to store, offer for sale, expose for sale, sell at retail, use or explode any fireworks (including sparklers) within the City limits.

The Fire Marshal will, at the owner's expense, seize and take all fireworks found in the City, according to a news release from the city. Offenses are Class One misdemeanors in the City of Alexandria and are punishable by a $2,500 fine and/or up to 12 months in prison. Fireworks violations may be reported to the Alexandria Fire Department at 703-746-5227 or the Alexandria Police Department at 703.838.4444. 

Decades of tragic experience have proved that fireworks are too dangerous to be used at home by amateurs. Improper handling of fireworks and sparklers all too often results in injuries.

More than 9,600 fireworks injuries occur annually. Of these, 62 percent of fireworks injuries were burns, while 20 percent are lacerations. Young people suffer the majority of fireworks injuries, which can result in amputations, severe eye injuries, disfigurement, and even death.