Fireworks: What's Legal, What's Safe?

Acworth's is one of many events around Atlanta where families can enjoy firework shows from a safe distance during the Fourth of July.

But if you choose to celebrate at home, the Cobb County Police Department is advising you do so safely and within the law. 

Here's what the department says is legal in Georgia:

• Wire or wood sparklers of not more than 100 grams of mixture per item
• Other sparkling items which are non-explosive and non-aerial and contain 75 grams or less of chemical compound per tube or a total of 200 grams or less for multiple tubes
• Snakes, glow worms, and trick noise makers which include paper streamers, party poppers, string poppers, snappers, and drop pops—each consisting of 0.25 grains or less of explosive mixture

Here are the standard safety practices that the department says are recommended by the U. S. Fire Administration and other related organizations:

• Do not let young children play with sparklers. These can reach temperatures as high as 1200 degrees and cause third degree burns. Older children should be closely supervised.
• Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from houses, dry leaves, dry grass and flammable materials, and hose down the area you intend to use before you begin.
• Keep a bucket of water or hose nearby for emergencies and to pour on fireworks that do not ignite. Be sure to water down spent fireworks before placing them in the trash.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting and keep your hair pulled back.
• Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially glass or metal.
• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption when handling fireworks.