“It's a big show over here; everyone wants to put on a big show," says Tim Reeves, owner of Merritt’s Fireworks in Slocomb.

It's time for the 4th of July which means food, fun and most importantly- fireworks.

Dothan fire officials say they saw only minor injuries last independence day and hope this year is even safer.

The fact that it's illegal to sell, posses, or shoot fireworks in the city limits helps the number of injuries remain low.

"We do receive a number of complaints every year that people are using fireworks within the city limits, and the police will respond to those people appropriately, but we have seen a number of fires started in the city- grassfires. We even had a warehouse fire a couple of years ago because of bottle rockets,” says Cpt. Chris Etheredge of the Dothan Fire Department.

Of course, there will be plenty of backyard parties complete with explosives outside the city, and safety precautions must be taken seriously.

Stand 8 to 10 feet away from lit fireworks, and parents- always supervise your children.

Also, be careful when drinking alcohol, your judgment may be impaired.

"And always- when you are doing artillery shows, make sure you do not have your head over the bundle. Always light away, don't put your face in" says Reeves.

Large arrangements of fireworks aren't the only ones that can cause harm. Smaller items like sparklers and bottle rockets can also do a lot of damage.

"Even with something as similar as a sparkler, we see burns every year from children holding sparklers they may get scared and burn themselves with them, or drop them and start grassfires or things of that nature, so adult supervision is a must and larger fireworks should be handled by adults only" says Captain Etheredge.

The Alabama Forestry Commission also warns the public to watch out for fireworks that can hit dry land.

Also be cautious when lighting or using charcoal grills.