Officials warn about firework safety ahead of the Fourth of July

SOUTH GEORGIA. (WALB) — As families across South Georgia prepare to celebrate Independence Day, safety officials are urging everyone to think twice before lighting fireworks, warning that a moment of excitement can quickly become a life-changing tragedy.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), fireworks were responsible for 15 deaths and an estimated 13,000 emergency department-treated injuries nationwide in 2025. The agency says many of those injuries involved burns to the hands, fingers, face and head, while others resulted from fireworks that malfunctioned or were used improperly. People between the ages of 15 and 24 experienced the highest rate of fireworks-related injuries.

The CPSC also warns that sparklers, often considered a safer option for children, can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit — hot enough to melt some metals and cause severe burns in seconds.

What fire officials are saying

Keith Harper, a local fire official, said the department is focused on getting safety information to the public ahead of the holiday.

“Never allow young children to play or light fireworks,” Harper said. “Light fireworks one at a time. Avoid purchasing fireworks that are packaged in brown paper. Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose around where you’re going to shoot the fireworks. And never use fireworks while impaired or on drugs.”

Harper said first responders are prepared for whatever may come this weekend.

“As we prepare, we try to get the word out there for people to be cautious, be careful,” Harper said. “In case of emergency, we’re all ready for whatever may come. But use very extreme caution when lighting them and always get back from them.”

Harper said his department has not experienced a fireworks-related incident during his career — something he attributes to public education.

“It makes me feel good knowing that we can educate people enough so they know — that way we won’t run into that incident,” Harper said.

Fire risk and weather conditions

This year’s Fourth of July also comes during a stretch of hot summer weather across South Georgia. With temperatures expected to climb into the 90s and recent brush and grass fires reminding residents how quickly flames can spread, fireworks could pose an even greater risk in dry conditions.

Harper said recent rainfall has improved conditions somewhat, but urged residents to remain vigilant.

“Don’t hesitate to call the fire department if your fireworks start the woods on fire or whatever,” Harper said. “I feel like we’re in a pretty good, decent place now, with all the rain that we have gotten, to where we won’t have what we had back three or four months ago.”

Harper said fire crews will be on standby throughout the holiday but also plan to spend time with family.

Safety tips for celebrating responsibly

The CPSC recommends purchasing only legal consumer fireworks, carefully reading and following all instructions, lighting one firework at a time, never attempting to relight a firework that fails to ignite, and keeping a bucket of water or garden hose nearby. The agency also advises never allowing young children to handle fireworks and never using fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Harper echoed those recommendations with a final message for the public.

“When you’re shooting fireworks, just mainly keep young children away,” Harper said. “Be smart about it. Don’t shoot towards any homes or at anybody. Don’t try to do pranks. Just try to be very careful and use extreme caution when shooting.”

Officials said the recent heat may impact fire danger this year. To learn what families can do to celebrate safely while protecting themselves, their loved ones and their property, click here.

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