Commissioner King: Stay Safe this Independence Day

ATLANTA – Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King encourages all Georgia residents to practice caution when celebrating this Independence Day with fireworks.

“Every Independence Day, fire departments across Georgia are inundated with emergency calls due to firework related accidents,” said Commissioner King. “While celebrating the birth of our nation with friends and family, I encourage Georgians to be mindful of the dangers that fireworks can present.”

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that eight deaths and 9,700 injuries involved fireworks in 2023. In this group, approximately 1500 injuries were associated with smaller combustibles like firecrackers and sparklers. Protect yourself and your loved ones by practicing the following fire safety tips:

• Always read the labels and follow the directions for each specific type of firework
• Light fireworks a safe distance away from other people and fire hazards
• Never re-ignite or pick up malfunctioning fireworks
• Do not give fireworks to small children
• Never aim a firework at another person
• Avoid using illegal or homemade fireworks
• Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby
• Do not use fireworks when impaired by drugs or alcohol
• If you do not feel safe lighting your own fireworks, attend a public fireworks display

For additional safety tips, information on fireworks licensing, and much more, visit our Fireworks FAQ page. For more on laws governing the use of fireworks in Georgia, please contact your local police or fire department.

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The mission of the Office Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire is to protect Georgia families by providing access to vital insurance products and safe buildings through fair regulation that creates economic opportunities for all Georgians.