How To Stay Safe on the Fourth of July

LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. -- The state of Georgia has legalized a class of fireworks that used to be off-limits to consumers, but Gwinnett County firefighters are urging residents to leave fireworks displays to the professionals on the Fourth of July.

Previously, individuals could only buy sparklers or devices that give off showers of sparks, according to Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services. But this year, people can buy devices that explode or launch into the air.

However, sparks from these consumer-type fireworks can ignite fires, endangering nearby people, houses and other buildings. "The combination of dry vegetation and enthusiastic patriots lighting fireworks can lead to dangerous situations," the fire department said in a statement.

“With many opportunities available for residents to get together and view professional fireworks displays, why take any risks?” asks Assistant Chief Stephen Hrustich, the Gwinnett fire marshal, in the statement.

In Gwinnett County, public displays are conducted by licensed, trained pyrotechnicians. The sites are approved through an application process and inspected by the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Division-Fire Marshal’s Office.

What's Legal in Georgia?

This summer, state law allows the sale of a wider range of consumer fireworks. Previously, only novelty items such as sparklers and items that emit showers of sparks were sold throughout the state from stores and tents. These items are not affected by the latest legislation.

Under current law, consumer fireworks, or devices that explode or launch into the air, are now available to the general public, but they can only be sold from a brick-and-mortar storefront, the fire department says. They cannot be sold from tents or makeshift vending sites.

Any Gwinnett establishment selling consumer fireworks must be inspected by the Gwinnett County Fire Marshal and be licensed through the State Fire Marshal’s Office. This helps ensure that places selling fireworks are legal and safe.

Devices such as M80s, M100s, Blockbusters, Quarter-Sticks and Ash Cans are outlawed throughout the U.S. under federal law. These devices are considered dangerous, contain large quantities of explosive powder, and may not include warning labels or manufacturer identification. They may cost more than other consumer fireworks or novelty products.

Anyone who discovers consumer fireworks being sold from a tent, or encounters illegal fireworks being sold, should notify the Gwinnett County Fire Marshal’s Office at 678.518.4980 or email firemarshal@gwinnettcounty.com.

Safety Tips

Firefighters warn against allowing children (at any age) to handle or play with fireworks. Consumer-type fireworks can generate temperatures well over 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and could cause severe (life-threatening) burns if not handled properly.

Fireworks should only be used by a responsible adult. Be sure to read and follow all instructions included with any fireworks product.

For those planning to use consumer-type fireworks, the safety tips below will help provide an enjoyable Independence Day for everyone:

• Purchase fireworks from a licensed and reputable vendor.
• Read the directions carefully and inspect the device for any defects.
• Keep a bucket of water, garden hose and fire extinguisher close by.
• Ignite fireworks outdoors in an open area - away from buildings, vehicles, vegetation or any other combustible material.
• Ignite only one device at a time and use a “punk” or fireplace lighter.
• Always keep a safe distance between yourself and the fireworks device.
• Remember to allow enough room for the proper functioning of fireworks.
• Always ignite fireworks on a firm, flat surface.
• Never give fireworks to a child and keep children away from any immediate firework area.
• Never attempt to fix or re-ignite a malfunctioning device. Instead, discard it safely by soaking it in a bucket of water.
• Before going to bed or when leaving the area, remember to inspect the area where fireworks were used.
• Make sure that no smoldering fires, hot embers or sparks are present from falling fireworks debris. Wet the area with a garden hose for added protection.
• Store unused fireworks in a cool, dry place out of the reach of children or pets and away from open flames.
• When discarding fireworks, remember to always soak them in a bucket of water for several hours before placing them in the trash.

For additional information on fireworks safety, please contact the Gwinnett Fire Community Risk Reduction Division at 678.518.4845, or email fireprograms@gwinnettcounty.com. You may also visit www.gwinnettfire.org.