Politics & Government

Go See a Fireworks Show Rather Than Set Them Off Yourself

Gwinnett County's firefighters encourage you to attend a professional show to celebrate the Fourth of July instead of using fireworks yourself this year.

But if you are going to use fireworks, follow these tips for a safe celebration:

  • Never allow children to handle or light fireworks 
  • Always read and follow instructions printed on labels 
  • Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear, safe location away from homes and cars
  • Light one firework at a time, and quickly move back after lighting
  • 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 
  • Never handle fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol
  • Call 911 in case of emergency

Georgia law 

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Over the last few years, Georgia's laws regarding fireworks have changed to allow certain types of fireworks including: 

  • Wire or wood sparklers using 100 grams or fewer 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 

Please note 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. 

Find out what's happening in Duluthwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Fireworks safety 

Even though some types of fireworks are legal in Georgia, you should use extreme caution to avoid serious injury during this year's Independence Day celebrations. 

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that approximately 200 injuries are reported daily in July related to fireworks, and more fires are reported on Independence Day than on any other day. Bringing these statistics closer to home, July was the busiest month for Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services in 2012.

Source: Gwinnett News for Neighborhoods 

  


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