Community Corner

Fireworks for a Cause, But Be Safe

Love Loud Awareness is selling fireworks in Canton, Cartersville and Woodstock to benefit the nonprofit.

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

Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner Ralph Hudgens says use extreme caution to avoid injuries when using fireworks this Fourth of July holiday.

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.

About 7,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms every year for fireworks-related injuries and most of those incidents involve children.

Georgia law states that prohibited fireworks shall not include β€œwire or wood sparklers of 100 grams or less of mixture per item; other sparkling items which are nonexplosive and nonaerial and contain 75 grams or less of chemical compound per tube or a total of 200 grams or less for multiple tubes; snake and glow worms; trick noise makers which include paper streamers, party poppers, string poppers, snappers, and drop pops each consisting of 0.25 grains or less of explosive mixture.”

Here are the safety tips for using legal fireworks:

Find out what's happening in Canton-Sixeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

  • Always read and follow label directions.
  • Only use fireworks outdoors.
  • Never experiment or attempt to make your own fireworks.
  • Only light one firework at a time.
  • Never re-ignite malfunctioning fireworks
  • Fireworks should only be used with close adult supervision.
  • Never give fireworks to small children.
  • Be sure to have water handy.
  • Never throw fireworks at another person.
  • Remember to call your local 911 for emergencies.

And remember, the sale and use of most types of fireworks, including firecrackers, skyrockets and cherry bombs, are still illegal in Georgia and punishable by a maximum fine of up to $1,000 and up to one year in jail.

Find out what's happening in Canton-Sixeswith free, real-time updates from Patch.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here