Crime & Safety

Fireworks Safety Tips for Fourth of July

Gwinnett Fire/ES encourages residents to attend a fireworks show rather than using fireworks.

Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services encourages residents to attend a fireworks show instead of using fireworks. There are quite a few fireworks displays to choose from this weekend in Gwinnett and in the metro Atlanta area.

According to fireworks safety information provided by Gwinnett Fire/ES, over the past few years, Georgia's laws regarding fireworks have changed and the following are now legal:  

  • Wire or wood sparklers using 100 grams or less of explosive chemicals.
  • Sparkling items, which are non-explosive and non-aerial and contain 75 grams or less of explosive material or a total of 200 grams or less for multiple items.
  • Snake and glow worms.
  • Trick noise makers, which include paper streamers, party poppers, string poppers, snappers, and drop pops consisting of 0.25 grams or less of explosive mixture.

Although these types of fireworks are allowed in Georgia, citizens should use caution to avoid injury during this year's Independence Day holiday celebrations.

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Gwinnett Fire/ES warns that the sale and use of most types of fireworks, including firecrackers, skyrockets, and cherry bombs, are illegal in Georgia and punishable by a maximum fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail.

Approximately 200 injuries are reported daily in the month of July related to fireworks, according to a new report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. On the Fourth of July, far more U.S. fires are reported than on any other day, and fireworks account for more than half of those fires.

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Here are some safety tips from Gwinnett Fire/ES for using legal fireworks this holiday:

  • Fireworks should only be used under adult supervision.
  • Always read and follow instructions printed on labels.
  • Only use fireworks outdoors.
  • Use fireworks in a clear, safe location away from homes and cars.
  • Be sure to have water handy.
  • Light one firework at a time.
  • Have a bucket of water and fire extinguisher nearby.
  • Submerge the spent fireworks in water for at least an hour before disposing them.
  • Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks.
  • Never attempt to make your own fireworks.
  • Remember to call 911 in an emergency.


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