Alexandria Fire Department Reminds Community that Fireworks are Dangerous and Illegal

The Alexandria Fire Department (AFD) wants to keep you, your family, and your pets safe during your Independence Day celebrations.

Fireworks are illegal in Alexandria. It is against the law to buy, sell, store, or use any fireworks inside the City, including sparklers and novelty items. This applies even if the fireworks were legal to buy in nearby counties or cities.

The Fire Marshal's Office enforces this ban. Any fireworks found inside the City can be taken away. If you are caught with fireworks, you could face a Class 1 misdemeanor charge. That means up to one year in jail, a $2,500 fine, or both.

Fireworks Can Cause Serious Injury
Fireworks cause injuries and deaths every year. Last year, 24 people died in recreational fireworks incidents, according to an American Fireworks Standards Laboratory (AFSL) report from 2025. Over 13,000 people were hurt by fireworks, including many children.

Sparklers are not safe either. Nearly half (46%) of people burned by fireworks last year were burned by a sparkler.

• Adults over 30 had the most reported injuries. People aged 13 to 29 had the second highest.
• 23% of teens injured by fireworks needed hospital care.
• 35% of injuries were to hands and fingers. About 30% were to the head and face.

Where You Can Watch Fireworks

Come celebrate with us. Alexandria turns 277 this year, and the country turns 250. Join us at the City Birthday celebration on Saturday, July 11, for a safe, legal fireworks show. There are also displays in cities and counties across the National Capital Region. Many are visible from Alexandria's waterfront on the 4th of July.

How to Report Illegal Fireworks
You can report illegal fireworks 24 hours a day by calling 703.746.4444. If you need police, fire, or emergency medical help, call 911. You can also give up any fireworks you have without punishment. Just call 703.746.4444 and ask for the on-duty Fire Marshal to arrange pickup.

For media inquiries only, contact Public Information Officer Taylor King, at [email protected] or 703.746.5190.