4th of July Festivities: Fireworks Safety in Atlanta

Watching a fireworks display is definitely a fun and festive way to spend the 4th of July, but of course, there are risks involved, especially if you're putting on this display yourself. Many cities have even prohibited or significantly limited the use of fireworks, but there are still a couple of places you can buy these electric treats during the Independence Day season.

Atlanta is known for its colorful fireworks displays at Piedmont and Centennial Parks, as well as other 4th of July celebrations such as barbeques and concerts. I managed to catch up with Phantom Fireworks in Valley, Alabama, which is about an hour away from Atlanta (since fireworks are not sold in Georgia in large quantities). Here are some of the great products they sell, as well as how you can stay entertained-and safe this Independence Day.
The Locust Candle and Phantom Candle seem to be among the favorites for fireworks enthusiasts, and the prices are extremely affordable. The Phantom Candle, which sells out quickly, is only $5.99 for a pack of 10, which come in different colors and 'shots' (i.e. the design they will create when lit). The Locust Candle is $14.99, and comes in red, green, gold, and blue colors.

When you purchase fireworks from the store, you will get great customer service there (the staff is very knowledgeable about all their products), but you will also be warned about the dangers of fireworks and how to use them safely. First of all, children should never handle fireworks, and it's best to light fireworks in a clear, open space so that you won't injure others or damage objects. Georgia laws for fireworks state that a license is required to display fireworks, and even though the selling of firecrackers and skyrockets, as well as Roman candles and sparklers, was prohibited, Georgians are allowed to buy some of these products in their own state. This has helped to cut down on the injuries children have experienced due to fireworks, and Cumming, Georgia mayor Ford Gravitt supports the decision. "This is an important issue. A lot of kids could get hurt, so they (GMA) advised we not rush into developing any ordinances right away, but that we think everything through," said Gravitt in a Forsyth County newspaper interview. The fire departments in counties all around Georgia are also using extra caution when permitting fireworks in the state. "In my personal career I have seen a lot of people injured and structures damaged because of fireworks," said Steve Anderson of the Forsyth County Fire Department. "And nationwide, sparklers are one of the leading causes of injuries among children." Firefighters, as well as the staff at Phantom Fireworks, recommend that those handling fireworks use gloves and goggles to protect eyes and skin from burns, and to have water and a fire extinguisher close by in order to keep the fire from spreading.

To be on the safe side, many Atlantans are enjoying the colorful and creative display of fireworks at Centennial Park (home of the 1996 Olympics). For more information, check out these sites to find lots of other fun things to do on Independence Day in Atlanta: www.piedmontpark.com, www.sugarhill.com, and www.creativeloafing.com.