Macon-Bibb County Fire Department hosts Fireworks Safety Demonstration
“We want to have a great time. Celebrate the 4th of July and we're here to help in any kind of way,” said Chesney Butler, Owner of Freedom Fireworks in Warner Robins.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – July 4th is just three days away and Macon-Bibb County Fire Department wants families to enjoy their time together and to also be safe doing so. That’s why they are stressing the importance of fireworks safety ahead of the holiday.
A live safety demonstration was held as they lit fireworks and shared tips, such as not being under the influence while operating fireworks, wearing gloves, eye protection, closed toe shoes, being a safe distance away, and using plenty of water to douse the fireworks after use.
Lt. Jeremy Webb, Fire & Life Safety Educator for Macon-Bibb County Fire Department says the number one injury they see every year is severe burns, along with many others.
“No matter if it’s lacerations, no matter if it’s a loss of limb, or property damage, we see wildland fires and things of that nature because residents that choose to maybe light off fireworks around dry vegetation and things like that,” said Lt. Webb.
(Photo Credit: Godfrey Hall/41NBC)
“People actually not being safe enough to make sure they take the time to read the box or to know exactly what something is going to do. How is it going to discharge as well as after its discharge?” said Chesney Butler, Owner of Freedom Fireworks in Warner Robins, who also supplied the fireworks for the demonstration. “One of the things you want to do is just allow that firework to kind of sit out there a few minutes, because you’re dealing with fire. So that’s kind of what we see, just small things that people sometimes don’t know. So make sure that you have plenty of water and just follow your safety precautions, because safety is always first.”
To purchase any type of firework you must be 18 or older, always purchase from a licensed vendor, always be aware of surroundings and children should always be supervised by an adult when in use.
“So being mindful of that and being courteous, being considerate, and being safe during this holiday season,” said Lt. Webb.
“We want to have a great time. Celebrate the 4th of July and we’re here to help in any kind of way,” said Butler. “We also do safety trainings at our store because we want everybody to be safe and have a great time with their family. That’s what it’s about, barbecue and family.”
