CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – The City of Clarksville issued a statement this week reminding residents of the rules and regulations surrounding fireworks, including when they can be set off in city limits.

According to the announcement, fireworks may be exploded, fired, shot, or set off inside the city limits from July 1 to July 5 between the hours of 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.

As per city code, fireworks can not be used on city property, including public parks, and residents under the age of 16 must be supervised by an adult.

Additionally, fireworks may not be discharged within 600 feet of a church, hospital, asylum or public school. Nor may they be discharged from a motor vehicle or in the direction of any other person.

Finally, the city prohibits the use of sky lanterns, which require a professional license to use in the state of Tennessee.

“Though these lanterns can provide aesthetic value, they pose numerous hazards when they fall from the sky before their flame is fully extinguished. They can land on grass, trees, rooftops, powerlines, and other combustibles, which can ignite a destructive fire. Additionally, their fallen remains can pose a threat to livestock when consumed,” said the release.

Over half a million in damages in 2021

In 2021, between June 20 and July 5, Clarksville Fire Rescue reported a total of seven confirmed firework-related service calls, with three more suspected to have involved fireworks.

The damages from those incidents, which included four dumpster fires, two fires in vegetation, and one residential fire, totaled $575,000.

Clarksville Fire Rescue offers the following safety tips when dealing with fireworks:

  • Read the label before shooting off a firework. Make sure you understand the instructions.
  • Light one firework at a time and move away.
  • Ensure the area is clear of buildings, cars, trees and other obstructions when shooting fireworks.
  • Have a means of fire prevention on hand, such as a bucket of water, hose or fire extinguisher.
  • Don’t relight duds. Soak the unexploded firework in water overnight to ensure safe disposal.
  • Fireworks should not be carried in pockets or shot from metal or glass containers
  • Wet down spent fireworks.
  • Be extra careful with sparklers, which can reach temperatures of 1,200 degrees.

The city of Clarksville will host its annual Independence Day Celebration on Sunday, July 3 at Liberty Park.  the park will open at 5 p.m.. Activities and music will begin at 6:30 p.m.. The event be free and open to the public.