Milton Fire Urges Residents To Be Safe This Holiday Week

MILTON, GA — With Independence Day celebrations quickly approaching, the Milton Fire-Rescue Department urges residents to practice fire safety. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 13,000 people are injured each year using fireworks.

"We know that fireworks are a special part of 4th of July celebrations, but we ask you to be careful if you choose to use them," Milton Fire Chief Robert Edgar said. "Be smart; keep children and animals at a safe distance, keep a hose or other water source nearby, and never use them under the influence of any alcohol or drug."

In a community like Milton, Mayor Joe Lockwood emphasized the importance of residents considering nearby neighbors with large outdoor animals and small indoor pets who may be vulnerable to the sights and sounds of fireworks.

"While there's no doubt that a fireworks display can be exciting for many people, fireworks can be less enjoyable for animals and even some veterans," Lockwood said.

Fireworks are legal in the state of Georgia and permitted on July 3 and 4 from 10 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on both days. However, there are some restrictions on their usage:

• You cannot use fireworks in/on a public road.
• You also cannot use fireworks within 100 yards of a(n):
• Gas station, fuel tank or other retail/storage facility with flammable or combustible liquids;
• An electric substation, water treatment plan, or waste-water treatment facility;
• A hospital, nursing home, or other health care facility; or
• Any public use air facility.
• Within any county or city park, historic site, recreational area, or other property, unless the county or city has granted a special use permit.
• While under the influence of alcohol or any drug to the extent that it is unsafe to use consumer fireworks.

The Milton Police Department is authorized to enforce these regulations in the interest of public safety, and will do so.

Edgar encourages parents not to allow children to ignite fireworks, to keep everyone at a safe distance, and to always read the labels carefully before igniting any fireworks. Also, to be aware that sparklers burn about 2,000 degrees - a temperature hot enough to melt some metals.

"Firework embers can burn in the packaging even after the fireworks are done, and used fireworks in a trash can smolder unseen for several hours," Edgar said. "Used fireworks should be watered down and stored away from the house or any flammable structures or materials after the festivities end."

For a fire-related emergency, call 911. For more information on fireworks or for any non-emergency fire and safety related concern, contact the Milton Fire-Rescue Department at 678-242-2541 during normal business hours or by email at fire.marshal@cityofmiltonga.us.