Cookeville Police Advise Citizens Be Mindful Around Fireworks

The Cookeville Police Department wants residents to be safe and smart while using fireworks during Fourth of July celebrations.

Captain Bobby Anderson said the celebration of America’s birthday comes with a few restrictions within city limits.

“We want everyone to enjoy the Fourth of July and celebrate with fireworks, and our city ordinance gives us some guidance on what can and can’t be done,” Anderson said. “Fireworks can be shot between July 1 and July 5. You can’t shoot fireworks [before] 9 a.m. and [after] 10 p.m. except on July 4, then you’re allowed to fire them until midnight.”

Anderson said the city ordinance also prevents residents from shooting fireworks in specific areas.

“You can’t be firing within 600 feet of a church, hospital, funeral home, or school, and you can’t fire fireworks within 200 feet of a fireworks stand or anyplace fireworks are stored or sold,” Anderson said. “You can’t discharge them from a vehicle. You can’t throw, shoot, or aim fireworks at any other people, and you have to be at least 16 years old to purchase the fireworks.”

Anderson said any violations could result in a visit to city court.

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission reports an average of 280 people go to the hospital around the Fourth of July due to firework-related incidents. Nearly half of injuries are the result of burns.