 Thu, Aug 28, 2008 05:04 AM
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2008-06-27  Crime | Fire officials urge safe, responsible fireworks use
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July 03, 2008 | 09:14 AM
www.gwinnettherald.com
FORSYTH COUNTY- Due to the current drought conditions, the Forsyth County Fire Department is urging citizens to practice safe, responsible use of fireworks while celebrating the nation's independence on July 4.
"The extreme dry conditions Forsyth County is experiencing can certainly increase the risks associated with fireworks, so extra caution is highly recommended," Fire Chief Danny Bowman said. "This year, we are strongly advising residents not to use fireworks at home and instead leave fireworks displays to the professionals."
Bowman noted that for local professional fireworks displays, Fire Department personnel and apparatus will be on heightened alert status to help ensure the safety of the public.
The Fire Department will strategically place firefighters on fire watch in a one mile circumference of the Cumming Fairgrounds during the permitted fireworks display July 3. They will remain on fire watch from the beginning of the display until approximately one hour following the conclusion of the show.
"A plan is in place and we will be diligent in monitoring the situation," Bowman said.
In addition to the dangers associated with the dry conditions, personal safety is a major issue involving fireworks. Those who choose to use fireworks are urged to follow the safety tips below, provided by the National Council on Fireworks Safety and the Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John Oxendine:
• Always read and follow label directions
• Have an adult present
• Buy from reliable sellers
• Use outdoors only
• Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket)
• Never experiment or make your own fireworks
• Light only one firework at a time
• Never relight a "dud" firework (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water)
• Never give fireworks to small children
• Store fireworks in a cool and dry place if necessary
• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trash can
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
• The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework
• Stay away from illegal explosives
• Dial 911 for any emergencies
Fireworks are unpredictable; therefore, injuries can occur even if a person is careful or is under supervision. The best way to avoid injury is to not use fireworks.
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