Georgia’s Fire Commissioner is urging folks to be careful when using fireworks during the New Year’s holiday.
“It’s traditional to celebrate the coming of the new year with fireworks,” says Commissioner Ralph Hudgens. “I urge all residents and visitors to enjoy them safely.”
READ Fireworks: What’s legal in Georgia?
To help avoid fires and injuries, Hudgens offers the following fireworks safety tips:
- Purchase fireworks from a licensed fireworks dealer.
- Observe all state laws regarding the use of fireworks.
- Read the labels carefully before igniting any fireworks.
- Ensure that an adult supervises all firework activities.
- Never allow children to ignite fireworks.
- Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
- Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
- Never try to relight a firework.
- Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby.
- Use caution around animals. Excitement, noise, and lights can cause fear and stress.
“According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks were involved in an estimated 10,500 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2014,” Hudgens says. “The risk of fireworks injury were highest for children ages 5-9.”
Fireworks were temporarily banned in more than 100 Georgia counties due to the drought. Gov. Nathan Deal lifted the ban on December 20th.
