King: Use fireworks safely this 4th of July
Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King encourages all Georgians to stay safe when celebrating with fireworks this 4th of July.
“Independence Day is a time to celebrate the founding of our nation with friends and family,” said Commissioner King. “Although celebrating with fireworks is a fun and time-honored estimated 15,600 fireworktradition, it is important to related injuries occurred remain cautious and follow in 2020, with two-thirds certain safety tips to prevent of those in the four-week accidental fires and severe period around the 4th of injuries this holiday.” July. More than 2,000 emer
According to the National gency department-treated Fire Protection Association injuries were the result of (NFPA), half of all fires small fireworks, such as reported on the 4th of July sparklers and firecrackers. result from fireworks. Fireworkrelated When using fireworks this 4th fires can result in significant of July, please practice the following injury, death, and millions safety tips: in direct property damage. An ♦ Always read the labels and follow directions for each specific type of firework
♦ Light fireworks outdoors and maintain a safe distance away from other people and fire hazards
♦ Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
♦ Do not give fireworks to small children
♦ Avoid using illegal or homemade fireworks
♦ Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby
♦ Submerge used and unused fireworks in water prior to discarding
♦ If injuries and damages do occur, call 911
♦ If you do not feel safe lighting your own fireworks, feel free to attend a public fireworks display
For more information on fireworks safety, visit our website at oci.georgia.gov/safety-tips-fireworks. For more on laws governing the use of fireworks in Georgia, please contact your local police or fire department.