Memorial Day 2017: Milton Reminds Residents of Fireworks Laws

MILTON, GA -- With Memorial Day just around the corner, the city of Milton is encouraging residents to practice fireworks safety and show courtesy to our four-legged neighbors.

New laws signed by Gov. Nathan Deal in 2016 have placed restrictions on fireworks usage, including:

• No fireworks after 9 p.m. (exception: on July 3 and 4 fireworks can be until midnight).
• No fireworks in/on a public road.
• No fireworks within 100 yards of a(n): gas station or fuel tank; electric substation; any county or city park, historic site, recreational area, or other property, unless the county or city has granted a special use permit; and within 100 yards of a hospital, nursing home, or other health care facility.
• No fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or any drug to the extent that it is unsafe to use consumer fireworks.

With an abundance of caution, the city also wants to remind you of the danger fireworks pose to our horse, dog and cat residents. Aside from the fear many animals have of the loud sounds, horses fear the flashing and booming in close proximity and these displays send most horses into panic, potentially leading to serious injuries or even death.

Furthermore, fences, hay, bedding and dry grass are highly flammable items found around many farms.

"A polite heads up to your neighboring horse owner about your fireworks celebration is very helpful and appreciated," the city said. "Our equestrian community is part of what makes Milton so special--help us protect what makes our community so unique by considering their safety and welfare during your Memorial Day holiday festivities."

Also, please remember that children must be supervised around fireworks, and residents should always keep a water source or fire extinguisher nearby during use.

Embers can also burn in packaging even after the fireworks are done, and used fireworks in a trash container can smolder unseen for several hours. Used fireworks should be watered down and stored away from homes or any flammable structures/materials after the festivities end. This will allow them to cool down and help prevent a late night tragedy.

Milton Police and fire code personnel are authorized to enforce these regulations in the interest of public safety.

For more information on fireworks or for any fire and safety related concern, contact the Milton Fire-Rescue Department at 678-242-2541 during normal business hours or by email at fire.marshal@cityfomiltonga.us.

Image via Shutterstock