New Fireworks Law Gives July 4th More Bang in GA

A new Georgia law that went into effect July 1 will allow for the sale, purchase and use of consumer fireworks just in time for the July 4th holiday.

According to the new law, consumer fireworks, or devices that explode or launch into the air, are now legal to purchase in Georgia, but only from “brick-and-mortar” storefronts.

Also:

• Fireworks can only be sold or used by persons 18 years of age or older.
• Fireworks cannot be used indoors.
• Fireworks can be used daily between the hours of 10 a.m. and midnight. On Jan. 1, July 3, July 4 and Dec. 31, fireworks can be used from 10 a.m. through 2 a.m.
• Fireworks cannot be exploded within 100 yards of a nuclear power facility or a gas station, or a facility that refines, processes, or blends gasoline.

The new law has drawn concerns from local fire agencies, who fear the combination of dry vegetation and enthusiastic celebrants could lead to dangerous situations on Independence Day.

If you enjoy watching fireworks, Gwinnett County Department of Fire and Emergency Services suggests leaving fireworks displays to the professionals.

“With many opportunities available for residents to get together and view professional fireworks displays, why take any risks?” said Assistant Chief Stephen Hrustich, Fire Marshal for Gwinnett County.

Fire officials express concern that sparks from store-bought fireworks could ignite fires endangering nearby buildings or people.

If you do plan to light fireworks at home, here are some tips from the fire department:

• 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 device.
• Remember to allow enough room for the proper functioning of fireworks.
• Always ignite devices on a firm, flat surface.
• Never give fireworks to a child and keep children away from any 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 at night, 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.