With fireworks legal in Georgia, Bryan County Emergency Services encourages everyone to enjoy fireworks in the safest possible way this New Year’s Eve.
The new Georgia fireworks law says you can shoot fireworks between 10 a.m. and 2 a.m. on New Year’s Eve. We recommend that people attend fireworks displays presented by trained professionals.
If you are going to purchase fireworks for private use, we encourage you to use fireworks responsibly and take safety precautions.
Fireworks safety tips
• Never let children handle, play with or light any fireworks.
• Always purchase your fireworks from a reliable, licensed fireworks dealer.
• Use in a clear, open area. Keep the audience a safe distance away from the shooting site.
• Safety glasses are recommended for individuals lighting fireworks or those in close proximity to the fireworks.
• Do not alter any fireworks device or make your own fireworks.
• Only light one firework at a time.
• Never attempt to relight, alter or fix any “dud” firework.
• Have a fire extinguisher, water hose or a bucket of water nearby at all times.
• Be mindful of lighting any fireworks during strong wind conditions, and light fireworks with prevailing wind blowing away from the spectators.
• Never smoke when handling fireworks.
• Never aim, point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Use fireworks outdoors and never indoors.
Pet safety
• If possible, walk your dogs during daylight hours, when the risk of firework noise is far lower.
• Keep pets indoors as soon as the outdoor light starts to fade.
• Close the curtains and put on music to mask the sound of the fireworks.
• If using fireworks at home, keep your pets in a room that is as far away from the noise as possible during the display, or perhaps take them to a pet sitter.
• If your pets are distressed, don’t be tempted to constantly cuddle or comfort them. This could be seen as rewarding their fearful behavior.
• Try to play with pets as a distraction technique: Buy a new toy or pet treats in advance. Reward them with pet treats when they settle down.
Safety is always the key to any activity, and this includes the use of fireworks. For your safety as well as that of your loved ones, neighbors and the community, Bryan County Emergency Services urges you to be safe and have a happy New Year!