Several Fourth of July celebrations and fireworks shows are set to take place this week.

Thorsby’s annual Fourth of July celebration will be held Wednesday, July 3, at 7 p.m. at Richard Wood Park.

The event will include a fireworks show put on by PYRO Productions Inc., singing by members of local churches, a prayer for the country, a tolling of bells and placing of a wreath under the American flag at the park.

In addition, Collins Chapel Baptist Church’s youth will hold their annual homemade ice cream contest as part of the town’s Fourth of July celebration.

Anyone wishing to enter ice cream in the competition should bring the ice cream and a $5 donation for entry to Richard Wood Park between 5:30–6:30 p.m.

The first-place winner will receive a $100 prize, second place will receive $75 and third place will receive $25.

Clanton’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show will be held Thursday, July 4, at 9 p.m. at Clanton City Park.

In case of inclement weather, the show will be rescheduled to Friday, July 5, at 9 p.m. at Clanton City Park.

Parking is first-come, first-served. Those who attend are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or alternate seating.

Lake Mitchell’s 25th annual fireworks show will be held Friday, July 5, at 9 p.m. at Cargile Creek.

Guests may bring their boats and watch the show from the water or gather on the shorelines near the creek.

Organizer Jim McCormick said other organizers and volunteers and a crew from PYRO Productions would help him with the 18-minute show synchronized to music, which will be mostly patriotic songs, plus “Shall We Gather at the River,” a favorite among lake residents.

McCormick said this year’s show is computerized, meaning the fireworks will be set to launch at specific times to match the lyrics of songs.

For example, “the rockets’ red glare” line in the National Anthem would be matched with red fireworks during the show.

“This is going to be the biggest one we’ve ever done,” McCormick said. “A lot of man hours go into it, but it’s a lot of fun. It’s just a joy to me to look out over the water and see all those red and green boat lights out there.”

For those planning to celebrate Independence Day with fireworks and cookouts, the Alabama Forestry Commission reminds everyone to observe safety precautions. “We want everyone to enjoy their celebration,” said State Forester Linda Casey, “But we also urge the use of caution with all debris burning and outdoor fires, including campfires and fireworks.”

Forestry officials provided the following recommendations:

•Avoid shooting fireworks in or near dry grass, leaves or other combustible materials.

•Thoroughly soak the area with water where fireworks are to be discharged, and have a garden hose or other source of water nearby.

•The same preventive measures apply when using charcoal grills. Do not dump hot coals in, near or around dry grass, leaves or other flammable materials.

•Allow briquettes to cool completely, or soak with lots of water, stir them and soak again, being sure they are cold to the touch.

•Never leave a grill unattended.

•If a fire does start, it is strongly recommended not to attempt to fight it. Instead, call 911 immediately and wait in a safe place for the arrival of the local fire department.

Fireworks are responsible for two out of five fires and hundreds of injuries reported across the state each Fourth of July, according to Alabama’s Integrated State Law Enforcement Task Force.

Fireworks can be dangerous, even deadly, if not handled with care.

SLE Task Force members stress the following:

•Use common sense, and obey the law. Do not discharge fireworks within 600 feet of any enclosed building; do not shoot fireworks into or from a motor vehicle; do not shoot fireworks toward people.

•Supervise children 15 and younger that want to purchase or use fireworks.

•Use fireworks in a clear, open area outdoors and away from flammables and combustibles. There also should be an ample water supply and fire extinguisher on hand.

•Never consume alcohol while handling fireworks.