The Barrow County Fire and Emergency Services is reminding citizens to be safe during this week’s Fourth of July holiday.
“We ask that citizens go and enjoy the public fireworks displays instead of using consumer fireworks,” said Lt. Scott Dakin, a spokesperson for the department.
There are two licensed displays in Barrow County that citizens can enjoy. Both the City of Auburn and Chateau Elan are hosting their annual July 4th celebration and fireworks displays.
“We really want people to attend a professional display and reduce the risks associated with discharging consumer fireworks,” Dakin said. “This year, with Barrow County still in an extreme drought, the risks are even higher.”
According to the National Fire Protection Agency, there are more fires on the Fourth of July than any other day in the year and approximately half of them are caused by fireworks. Also, there are approximately 10,000 injuries from fireworks that require patients to be seen in the emergency room.
“We are also reminding citizens to be safe when grilling. If citizens follow simple guidelines such as keeping the grill away from combustibles, and checking the supply hose integrity then we will have a safe and enjoyable holiday,” Dakin added.
