Wednesday, June 27, 2001
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Wednesday, June 27, 2001 |
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Lay off the pedal, and the fireworks, for July 4, officials urge Motorists traveling during the Fourth of July holiday period are being encouraged to exercise caution by the Georgia State Patrol. Also, fire safety officials are urging citizens to avoid the personal use of fireworks during the holiday. As many as 11 people could die in traffic crashes during the short 30-hour holiday period, according to the Georgia State Patrol. Troopers will be patrolling both interstates and secondary roads, concentrating on impaired drivers, said Col. George Ellis. Ellis reminded motorists that they can report suspected drunk drivers toll-free to the nearest Georgia State Patrol post by dialing *477 on their cellular phones. The use of fireworks during the holiday can create wildfires in addition to personal injuries and property damage, said John Oxendine, Georgia's insurance and safety fire commissioner. Oxendine recommended attending public fireworks displays performed by licensed professionals to observe July 4. Fireworks are the cause of more fires on the holiday than all other causes combined, according to statistics. Georgia law forbids the sale and use of all fireworks, including firecrackers, cherry bombs and sparklers. He asked parents to be aware of their children's actions so they can be protected from harm.
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