Wednesday, July 3, 2002
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Wednesday, July 3, 2002 |
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Oxendine urges Georgians to observe fireworks law on the fourth
Atlanta Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John W. Oxendine urges citizens to obey Georgia law and avoid personal use of fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday. "In light of the events of Sept. 11, the 4th of July this year will have special meaning for many people, who may want to do something special to celebrate," Oxendine said. "But remember that fireworks are illegal for public sale and use in Georgia. Please enjoy fireworks by attending a professional show handled by licensed experts, and don't risk injury to yourself or your family by trying to create your own fireworks display." Oxendine said that approximately 7,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms every year for fireworks-related injuries, and most of those incidents involve children. "Not only is there a strong possibility of personal injury, but also extensive property damage caused by fireworks," Commissioner Oxendine said. "Wildfires in dry conditions can spread rapidly and cause millions of dollars in damage." He added that in a typical year, two-thirds to three-fourths of all fireworks injuries occur 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. The sale and use of any type of fireworks, including firecrackers, cherry bombs and sparklers, are illegal in Georgia and punishable by a maximum fine of up to $1,000 and a sentence of up to one year in jail. Oxendine recommends attending public fireworks displays by licensed specialists instead of private functions where fireworks may be used illegally. "For your own safety and for the protection of your family, let's leave the fireworks to the professionals, sit back and enjoy the show."
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