It's hard to picture the Fourth of July holiday without fireworks, but local officials want to make sure that people are staying safe while using them this year.
Consumer fireworks became legal to purchase in Georgia eight years ago in July of 2015 and many people plan to set them off to celebrate Independence Day. Gainesville Fire Division Chief Josh Sheridan says that some fireworks are more dangerous than others.
"Any of the explosive-style fireworks are typically the worst because it's a projectile," Sheridan said. "It's bad about setting things on fire, including homes and cars."
Sheridan spoke on WDUN's "Drive at 5" Monday afternoon and said it's important to make sure that the larger fireworks are properly secured before they're fired. He said he recommends finding an open area and then mounting the fireworks to something secure like a piece of plywood.
The larger fireworks are not the only dangerous kinds, however. Sheridan also said that sparklers can be dangerous, especially when in the hands of children.
"A lot of times, the younger people will get out and they're not being watched. They'll be a little more careless than the adults will," Sheridan said. "With kids five years old and younger, there are alternatives. You can get them glow sticks, you can get them some of the confetti poppers."
Sheridan said he has seen incidents of fireworks mishaps first-hand, and he said it's important to be cautious when using any type of fireworks.
"Be safe, be aware of your surroundings, make sure you take your time and think about what you're doing before you do it," Sheridan said.
To hear more from Gainesville Fire Division Chief Josh Sheridan on fireworks safety, click play on the audio above for the full interview.
