With many official fireworks displayed canceled this year due to coronavirus concerns, Independence Day pyrotechnics could take a DIY turn this year.
All the more reason to exercise caution.
Independence Day is upon us and lots of us will celebrate by watching fireworks - or shooting off our own.
Thousands of injuries and a handful of fatalities result from amateur fireworks explosions each year, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
"On average, 250 people go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4 holiday," the agency notes. "Remember, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries."
The most common culprit: sparklers.
The sale and personal use of fireworks is legal in Georgia but there are some parameters.
Georgians can set off fireworks on normal days and certain holidays until 11:59 p.m., including the Fourth of July, provided local authorities haven't issued a general noise ordinance, the AJC previously reported. Fireworks are also allowed statewide until 1 a.m. on New Year's Day, according to 2018 legislation.
Regardless of local legislation, the use of fireworks is legal until 11:59 p.m. on the last Saturday and Sunday in May corresponding with Memorial Day, on July 3 and July 4 and on Labor Day. During drought conditions, the governor can forbid the use of any and all fireworks.
The town of Woodstock is among the few still planning to go ahead with official fireworks displays tonight, AJC reporter Courtney Kueppers previously reported.
“We strongly encourage those who gather in the area of Woodstock Square for the show to be responsible and follow CDC guidelines,” city manager Jeff Moon said.
Cumming also plans a fireworks show.
Experts urge anyone planning to attend any large gathering to practice social distancing and wear masks.
Notes the the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: “The more people an individual interacts with at a gathering and the longer that interaction lasts, the higher the potential risk of becoming infected with COVID-19 and COVID-19 spreading.”
About the Author
