Experts urge safety while enjoying fireworks

ALBANY — Fireworks are a fun and exciting way to celebrate upcoming holidays, however, they can be dangerous if handled incorrectly. Which is why agent Bonnie Bishop of Fleming & Riles Insurance has teamed with the Georgia Arson Control Board to remind citizens of Dougherty County of the proper safety precautions to take when handling legal fireworks.

“By following a standard set of firework guidelines, our community can greatly reduce the chance of injury,” Bishop said.

The following guidelines are recommended to help minimize safety hazards and reduce injuries:

— Make sure that the legal fireworks are only being used with close adult supervision. In the state of Georgia, no one younger than 18 years of age can purchase sparklers, and adults should always be present when handling fireworks. It is important to never allow young children to light fireworks and to remember that sparklers can burn at temperatures as high as 1,800 degrees.

— Only use firework products that are legal. The law states that the definition of prohibited fireworks shall not include: Wire or wood sparklers of 100 grams or less of mixture per item; other sparkling items which are non-explosive and non-aerial and contain 75 grams or less of chemical compound per tube or a total of 200 grams or less for multiple tubes; snake and glow worms; trick noise makers, which include paper streamers, party poppers, string poppers, snappers and drop pops, each consisting of 0.25 grains or less of explosive mixture.”

— Always look for labels and read the instructions, keep a hose and a bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies, only use sparklers outdoors and away from any houses, buildings and dry grass and only use them on flat hard surfaces.

— If sparklers do not ignite, wait 15 to 20 minutes, then douse and soak them with water and throw them away. Do not try to relight the sparklers.

— It is important to remember to protect pets as well; the sound of fireworks often frightens animals.

Anyone who knows of someone intentionally using fireworks to harm someone or someone’s property is urged call the ARSON HOTLINE at 1-800-282-5804. For more information, visit www.georgiaarsoncontrol.com.

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