Fireworks tips and holiday closings
FORT WALTON BEACH - The Fort Walton Beach Police Department will be enforcing laws regarding illegal fireworks, specifically those that fly and/or explode.
Sparklers, fountains and smokers are permitted.
Police officers will respond to unlawful fireworks calls and confiscate all fireworks, and charges may be filed if warranted. Police will also be strictly enforcing Driving Under the Influence laws during the holiday period as well.
Anyone planning to drink alcohol, is advised to have a designated driver or call a taxi.
The Fort Walton Beach Fire Department offers these safety tips for using fireworks:
- Always read and follow label directions
- Have an adult present when setting off fireworks
- Buy from state certified fireworks distributors only
- Ignite outdoors with water handy (garden hose)
- Don't make your own fireworks or take fireworks apart to see how they work
- Never relight fireworks that don't work
- Don't give fireworks to small children
- Store in a cool dry place
- Soak used fireworks in a bucket of water before disposing
- Never throw fireworks or shoot them at another person
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket
- Never shoot fireworks inside glass or metal containers
Holiday closings
All City of Fort Walton Beach Administrative Offices, the Fort Walton Beach Library and Creative Senior Center will be closed on Friday, July 4. The Fort Walton Beach Heritage Park and Cultural Center, BMX Track and Fort Walton Beach Golf Club will be open.
Residential and commercial garbage will be collected as scheduled, but yard debris will not be picked up.