As the Fourth of July approaches, the Savannah Fire Department (SFD) urges residents to prioritize safety while celebrating with fireworks. To ensure a festive and injury-free holiday, SFD offers the following essential fireworks safety tips:
1. Purchase Legal Fireworks:
Only buy fireworks from licensed and reputable dealers. Ensure they are legal in the state of Georgia and comply with local regulations.
Using illegal fireworks presents numerous hazards, including an increased risk of severe injuries like burns, eye damage, and even loss of limbs due to their unpredictable nature and lack of regulatory safety standards. These fireworks can easily malfunction, leading to accidental fires that endanger lives and property. Moreover, they generate excessive noise that can disturb communities and frighten pets. Engaging with illegal fireworks is not only dangerous but also illegal, carrying potential legal consequences. To ensure everyone's safety, it is crucial to avoid the use of illegal fireworks and adhere to local regulations.
Reference: Georgia General Assembly House Bill 727.
2. Adult Supervision:
Fireworks should only be handled by adults. Children should never be allowed to ignite or play with fireworks, including sparklers, which can burn at temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. Safe Distance:
Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly to a safe distance. Maintain a distance of at least 20 feet from fireworks that are being lit.
4. Use Outdoors Only:
Fireworks should only be used outdoors in a clear, open area away from buildings, vehicles, and flammable materials. Ensure the area is free of dry grass or other flammable substances that could catch fire.
Fireworks are strictly prohibited in state parks, according to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, State Parks and Historic Sites. They are also banned in other public parks unless a special license is obtained.
5. Keep Water Nearby:
Have a bucket of water or a garden hose ready in case of a fire or malfunction. Douse used fireworks with water before discarding them to prevent fires.
6. Do Not Relight Malfunctioning Fireworks:
If a firework does not ignite, do not attempt to relight it. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water before disposing of it.
7. Avoid Alcohol Consumption:
It is illegal to light fireworks under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Avoid using fireworks while under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol impairs judgment and increases the risk of accidents.
8. Respect Local Noise Ordinances:
Be mindful of the time and local noise ordinances to avoid disturbing neighbors, especially those who are sensitive to fireworks like combat veterans and elderly residents as well as pets.
The national animal welfare organization, Best Friends Animal Society provides tips on handling four-legged friends and fireworks.
About the Savannah Fire Department
The Savannah Fire Department is dedicated to protecting the lives and property of Savannah’s residents and visitors. Through education, prevention, and emergency response, the department strives to create a safer community.
