Insurance Commissioner Offers Tips for Using Fireworks Safely

Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King urges all Georgians to prioritize safety and exercise caution when handling fireworks this Independence Day.

Each year on the Fourth of July, fire departments throughout Georgia respond to a high volume of emergency calls related to fireworks accidents.

King said that while fireworks can be a fun part of the holiday, they must be handled with the utmost care.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that eleven deaths and 14,700 injuries were caused by fireworks in 2024.

That’s an increase of about 38% in deaths and 52% in injuries, respectively, compared to 2023.

So you can protect yourself and your loved ones by practicing some common-sense fire safety tips:

1. Always read the labels and follow the directions for each specific type of firework
2. Light fireworks a safe distance away from other people and fire hazards
3. Never re-ignite or pick up malfunctioning fireworks
4. Do not give fireworks to small children
5. Never aim a firework at another person
6. Avoid using illegal or homemade fireworks
7. Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby
8. Do not use fireworks when impaired by drugs or alcohol
9. If you do not feel safe lighting your fireworks, attend a public fireworks display

In Franklin County, there are no restrictions against the use of fireworks, but sheriff’s deputies do have discretion when investigating noise complaints due to fireworks, especially late at night.

The Lavonia Police Department follows state laws when it comes to fireworks, and there are no local restrictions in Canon or Royston.

In Hart County, fireworks are prohibited after midnight due to noise concerns.

In Hartwell, there are no restrictions, but officers also have discretion when it comes to noise complaints due to fireworks.