Safety, Fun with Fireworks for July 4th

Plan to celebrate this Fourth of July with fireworks? Two things you should know: where to get them and how to safely use them.

Where to Buy

Fireworks from TNT Fireworks, the nation’s largest distributor of consumer fireworks and novelty items, are available at several Cartersville locations, including:

Stands and Tents

• 825 West Avenue.
• 101 Market Place Blvd outside .

Stores

• Dollar General, Euharlee Road
• , Joe Frank Harris Parkway
• , West Avenue 

Safety First

While sparklers and similar non-explosive fireworks are legal in Georgia, they still warrant safety measures due to the dangers, incuding serious burns from high temperatures.

Two-thirds to three-fourths of all during the four-week period surrounding Independence Day. On the Fourth of July itself, fireworks usually start more fires nationwide than all other causes combined.

Follow these tips from the American Pyrotechnics Association to ensure the safety of your family, friends and pets, as well as your home and property.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS.

Always keep a hose and a bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies.

LIGHT ONE AT A TIME.

NEVER light two or more fireworks or sparklers at the same time.

KEEP IT OUTSIDE.

Only use fireworks and sparklers outdoors on flat, hard surfaces in clear areas and away from houses, buildings and dry grass.

HAVE ADULT SUPERVISION.

NEVER allow young children to light or handle fireworks or sparklers. Be aware of the minimum permitted age in your state. Adults should always be present when lighting or handling fireworks or sparklers.

STAY ALERT.

NEVER mix alcohol or other substances with fireworks or sparklers.

STAY CLEAR.

NEVER hold a lit firework in your hand. Keep as far from them as possible when lighting.

LET SLEEPING FIREWORKS LIE.

NEVER try to relight fireworks or sparklers that do not ignite. Wait 15 to 20 minutes before approaching them, then soak them with water and throw them away.

PROTECT YOUR PETS.

Animals are often frightened by the sounds of fireworks. Protect your “best friends” by keeping them indoors, secure and away from the loud, sudden noises.

Americans consume more than six times the amount of fireworks now than they did less than 40 years ago, according to TNT. In that time period, fireworks-related injuries in the U.S. fell from 38.3 to 3.3 per 100,000 pounds consumed, according to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.

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