By Lauren Johnson

The police and fire departments of Troy want to remind everyone to be safe over the Fourth of July weekend, especially when using fireworks.

Both departments encourage citizens to stay mindful and make sure there is an adult presence and super vision when using them.

“We encourage people not to shoot off fireworks inside the City of Troy because it’s against city ordinance,” said Fire Chief Michael Stephens.

For those who decide to shoot off fireworks outside of the city limits, he urges people to make sure an adult is present because of how dangerous fireworks can be.

Elaine Pinckard, owner of Pinckard’s Firework’s Shop, said parents must accompany children to purchase fireworks from the store. She also stresses for customers who purchase fireworks to be safe and use common sense.

“People also need to know that it’s extremely dry right now and that shooting fireworks gives a greater potential for fires whether it’s grass fires or wood fires,” Stephens said. “We’ve also had some structure fires that have been started by fireworks over the past years.”

Troy Police Chief Randall Barr said residents of the city should watch the official City of Troy fireworks show if they want to watch a big display.

“There’s no need to risk the dangers for a few minutes of fireworks,” Barr said. “The city show is by far the safest way to enjoy fireworks on the Fourth of July.”

The show begins at 9 p.m. and can be viewed at Veterans Memorial Stadium along with patriotic music. The show can also be seen from many parts of Pike County.

While fireworks are not allowed to be shot off inside city limits, everyone is invited to the Fourth of July fireworks show put on by the City of Troy, which will be at the university stadium. The display will start around 8:30 or 9 p.m. Thursday.

“Those heat up to more than 1,000 degrees; that’s really hot,” Barr said. “And kids don’t understand the danger. That’s hot enough to burn some metals. An accident with fireworks can lead to injuries that you can’t heal from; you could lose an eye or a finger.

“We just want everyone to have a happy and safe Fourth of July. Don’t let an accident ruin the fun.”