ALPENA — The fireworks show in Alpena on the Fourth of July are a go, but those who attend to view them are asked to take precautions to protect themselves and others from the possible spread of COVID-19.

In a press release today, the city announced that the annual show will be held in its usual location around dusk on Independence Day.

The release said residents and visitors should be able to get a good view of the show from their parked vehicles on and around State Avenue. Parks will be open along the shoreline, but people are being told to practice social distancing — staying at least six feet away from people outside their immediate family — and to wear masks.

The Alpena fireworks show this year is one of only a few that will be held, as most celebrations and festivals this summer have been canceled. The Alpena Municipal Council voted last month to move forward with the fireworks, but also left open the possibility that they could be delayed and shot off on Labor Day weekend, instead.

The pandemic threw a monkey wrench into fundraising for the event, but the Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce, local businesses, and residents rallied to raise $23,000 in three weeks.

Lafarge North America committed $12,000 to make sure the event was held.

The city is also reminding residents that use of at-home fireworks is permitted on July 3, 4 and 5, but only on your own property. Use on other days is prohibited by ordinance. The use of sky lanterns is always prohibited, as are consumer fireworks on city property, including parks.

City staff will be on hand at the fireworks to be sure everything goes smoothly.