New Year's Fireworks: What You Need to Know

With a few hours left until fireworks start popping off to celebrate a new year, it’s the perfect time to double check Georgia law regarding their sale and use.

House Bill 110, which was signed into law in late May, allows Georgians to purchase fireworks in state and to shoot off fireworks at any time between 10 a.m. and midnight on most days. On special days like New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, fireworks can be used until 2 a.m.

For those last-minute shoppers, the state Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner has set up a website where residents can find retail stores which can legally sell fireworks.

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind tonight, according to the National Council on Fireworks Safety:

• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• Know your fireworks; read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
• A responsible adult SHOULD supervise all firework activities. Never give fireworks to children.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.
• Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
• Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
• Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
• Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
• Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
• Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
• FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.