Author: Jay Howard
The new year is a time for hope, celebration, and fun. Although this time of year is one of excitement and joy, it also comes with inherent dangers. New Year’s Eve is one of the deadliest holidays of the year. There are many reasons this holiday is so dangerous, including the countless parties and the fireworks that light up the sky. There are several key pieces of information you need to know regarding fireworks in the state of Georgia.
Attorney Sami Tabbaa of Tabbaa Law can answer any questions about Georgia’s fireworks laws. He also can help you pursue the compensation you deserve if you are involved in a fireworks-related accident this holiday season.
What Are Georgia’s Fireworks Laws?
Per Georgia law, you can use fireworks legally any day of the week between 10:00 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. While local governments can (and often do) restrict the use of fireworks during these times with noise ordinances, there are some holidays that allow the use of fireworks until 11:59 p.m., regardless of local ordinances. Such holidays include:
- Memorial Day (the last Saturday and Sunday in May, but not the Monday of Memorial Day)
- Independence Day (July 3 and 4)
- Labor Day (the first Monday in September)
- New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31 through 1:00 a.m. on Jan. 1)
While these laws are in place, it is still illegal to use fireworks within 100 yards of certain locations. You may not use fireworks within 100 yards of any of the following:
- Nursing home
- Other health care facility
- Helipad
- Hospital
- Electric plant
- Water treatment plant
- Waste-water treatment plant
- Refinery
- Electric substation
- Gas station
- Jail or prison
- Within any park, historic site, recreational area, or other state property
Not surprisingly, it is also against the law to use fireworks while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Fireworks Safety and Statistics
According to data from the Consumer Protection and Safety Council (CPSC), fireworks were involved with an estimated 15,600 injuries treated in emergency rooms in 2020. While a majority of fireworks incidents occur during July 4th celebrations, a significant number of injuries also occur during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
If you plan to set off fireworks this New Year’s Eve or attend a fireworks display, taking a few basic precautions can make the difference between having a great night or suffering serious injuries. The following are some fireworks safety tips to follow this holiday:
Only Use “At-Home” Fireworks
Only buy fireworks that are approved for consumer use. If the fireworks are wrapped only in brown paper (not in colorful paper with instructions) then they’re probably meant for professional use only. Buy only the ones that are meant for at-home use.
Follow the Law
Once you have selected the appropriate fireworks and made sure that you’re following the law, be sure to have plenty of water nearby. You could have buckets filled with water or a garden hose ready in case it is needed.
Read and Follow the Instructions
Read and follow the instructions for using the fireworks very carefully. Never modify the fireworks or attempt to experiment with homemade fireworks. Do not light fireworks near homes, dry trees or bushes, or other fireworks, and only light one firework at a time. Light fireworks from a safe distance, and do not hover over them after they’re lit.
Mind Your Surroundings
If you are attending a fireworks display, be aware of the safety risks. Be sure to stay far back from where the fireworks are being lit and obey all rules and regulations.
Contact a Knowledgeable Georgia Personal Injury Attorney at Tabbaa Law Today
An accident involving fireworks can carry serious health implications for you and your family. From hospital fees to the cost of physical therapy, the expenses you incur due to an accident can significantly impact you and your family’s life. Attorney Sami Tabbaa of Tabbaa Law takes immense pride in his approach and will provide you with top-notch, client-oriented legal services. If you have been injured in a fireworks accident, you can call (770) 370-7881 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free case review today.
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