Local leaders provide firework safety tips for the Fourth of July

The fire department encouraged those who plan to light fireworks to use protective eye wear, avoid alcohol use and to move as quickly away from the device as possible after lighting.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The Macon-Bibb County Fire Department hosted its annual firework safety demonstration on Wednesday, providing tips to keep residents safe for the Fourth of July weekend.

The fire department encouraged those who plan to light fireworks to use protective eye wear, avoid alcohol use and to move as quickly away from the device as possible after lighting. The department wants residents to also be aware of the local ordinance regarding the use of fireworks.

“You can begin shooting fireworks at 10 a.m.,” Fire Safety Education Officer Lieutenant Jeremy Webb said. “It has to be ceased by 11:59 (p.m.). It is under city ordinance for Macon-Bibb County, and it can result in a fine if not followed.”

The Georgia Forestry Commission says the heat has increased the risk of wildfires resulting from firework use. Danny Gore, the county chief ranger for the Bibb-Twiggs-Wilkinson Forestry Unit, says dry weather in the area has further increased this threat.

“We have had some rainfall around in the last couple of days, but not all areas have had significant rainfall,” Gore said. “So we still have an elevated risk of fire.”

Gore encouraged residents to avoid wooded areas as much as possible and to research the fireworks they decide to purchase.

“Only use fireworks from state licensed vendors as others could be unpredictable and be a higher risk for wildfires,” Gore said.