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State law limits explosive
value of public fireworks
Public safety officials are urging
people who use fireworks this Fourth of July to stick with what's legal and to
exercise caution at all times.
But a word of warning to those who
venture out-of-state to purchase illegal fireworks: expect to receive a fine if
caught, said Capt. Jerome Johnson of the Glynn County Fire Department.
Barry Knotts runs a fireworks tent for Phantom
Fireworks at the intersection of U.S. 17 and the F.J. Torras
Causeway. (Bobby Haven/The Brunswick News)
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The sale and use of firecrackers,
Roman candles, torpedoes, skyrockets, wire and wood sparklers containing
100 grams or more of explosive chemical compound and bombs of any kind are still
prohibited in Georgia, he said.
A person found violating the law
could face up to $1,000 in fines or up to one year in jail.
Barry Knotts, who sells Phantom
Fireworks from a tent near the intersection of U.S. 17 and the F.J. Torras
Causeway in Brunswick, said vendors are complying with the law.
"We sell nothing but legal stuff
considered sparklers in Georgia," the Nahunta native said.
Knotts said he advises buyers to use
their heads.
"Do not hold fireworks in your hands
when lighting them," he said.
"Lay them in the sand or on a hard
surface. Follow the directions, and use plenty of common sense."
Legal fireworks include non-explosive
and non-aerial sparkling items such as snappers, snakes, glow worms and
sparkling fountains that contain 75 grams or less of chemical compound. Items
that have multiple tubes are limited to a combined 200 grams of chemical
compound to remain legal.
Shane Stutts, a representative of TNT
Fireworks and a former Glynn County volunteer firefighter, has advice for teens
thinking of purchasing fireworks in Georgia.
"The law says you have to be 18 years
or older to purchase fireworks and you need an adult around when shooting," he
said.
He said people should be careful when
using fireworks near homes and trees.
That's a good idea, said Johnson.
Although recent rainfall has helped to alleviate dry weather conditions in the
county, users of fireworks should be careful not to allow sparks to stray,
especially near grassy areas.
Stay safe
Fireworks safety tips:
* Use in a clear, open area.
* Never put any part of your body
over the top of any fireworks product.
* Light only one item at a time.
* Never attempt to re-light,
alter or fix a malfunctioning firework item.
* Have a fire extinguisher or
water supply nearby.
Source: National Council on Fireworks
Safety
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