This Fourth of July, Be Safe — and Legal — with Fireworks

This Fourth of July weekend, chances are you will be around fireworks.

But those that go boom in the night are illegal.

Fireworks generally referred to as “sparklers,” including fountains, sparklers, smoke balls, snakes, ground spinners, pinwheels and most novelty fireworks that stay on the ground are legal in Georgia.

Aerial fireworks — like those you can purchase across the border in Alabama, South Carolina and Tennessee — are not.

“With the many opportunities to get together and view professional fireworks displays, why take any risks?” Capt. Tommy Rutledge, spokesman for the Gwinnett County Department of Fire and Emergency Services, said in a press release.

According to the Georgia Office of Insurance and Fire Safety, possession of illegal fireworks is punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000 and up to a year in prison.

The fire department offers the following tips for fireworks safety: 

• Always read the directions carefully in a brightly lit setting and follow them. Inspect fireworks for any defects.

• Never give fireworks to children.

• Always keep a bucket of water, a garden hose or fire extinguisher close by.

• Store them in a cool, dry place, out of the reach of children and away from any open flames.

• Ignite outdoors, away from buildings, vehicles, combustible vegetation and light on a firm stable ground.

• Never attempt to fix or re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them in a bucket of water.

• Allow enough room for proper functioning and never light fireworks in windy or stormy conditions.

• Light one firework at a time and use a punk or BBQ lighter.

• Keep a safe distance away.

• Before going in for the night, inspect the area of the firework use and surrounding area to double check that no fires have started from falling debris.