Fire officials: Misusing fireworks can cause third-degree burns

December 30, 2015

41NBC Web Producer,

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – If you’re thinking about ringing in the New Year with fireworks, the Macon-Bibb Fire Department has some safety tips for you.

Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. (Legally, you must be at least 18 to use fireworks in Georgia.)
Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and could pose a great danger.
Always have an adult supervise firework activities, including sparklers which burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees and can harm a child.
Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks.
Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of a fire or other mishap.
Discharge fireworks at a distance of 25 yards or greater from other properties.
Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in a metal or glass container.
After fireworks complete their burning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding them to prevent a trash fire.
Refrain from using fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Do not use fireworks indoors.

Lieutenant Brenda Thomas from the Macon-Bibb Fire Department said accidents happen when people misuse fireworks.
“We’re talking, sometimes, third degree burns and that’s pretty serious. When you get to third degree burns, you’re sometimes talking about being air [lifted] to Augusta to the burn unit so that’s how serious this really is,” explained Thomas.
Under state law, fireworks can be set off from 10:00 a.m. New Year’s Eve until 2:00 a.m. New Year’s Day.