Brookhaven fireworks regulations help keep everyone safe

Be safe this July 4

 

Respect your neighbors while enjoying the holiday

Brookhaven, GA, July 2, 2020 – It’s that patriotic time of year filled with fireworks and celebration. However, there are some state and local legal restrictions in place meant to make it a joyful time for everyone. Fireworks can be legally used in Brookhaven any day from 10 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. and until 11:59 p.m. on July 3 and 4.

Every year, the Brookhaven Police Department (BPD) receives a number of calls that could be avoided if everyone follows the ordinances and common-sense rules created to make the holiday safe for all. Here are a few reminders from the BPD:

  • Location matters! Fireworks cannot be used in parks or historic districts, or within 100 yards of any gas station, electric plant, water or waste water treatment plant, refinery, electric substation, jail or prison, helipad, hospital, nursing home or any other healthcare facility.
  • It is illegal to discharge fireworks while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • Never discharge a firearm within the city limits, especially in a celebratory manner. In addition to being reckless, it's a crime.
  • To report fireworks after 10:30 p.m. (after 11:59 p.m. on July 3 and 4), please call 9-1-1. Prior to those times, discharging fireworks is legal and should not be reported.

For further information about Brookhaven’s fireworks ordinances, go to http://ow.ly/ljZJ30qVqdL

Due to the coronavirus pandemic, a number of the traditional local July 4 fireworks celebrations have fizzled out.

Cancelled shows in the area such as in Decatur, Dunwoody, Avondale Estates and Chamblee have been canceled or postponed this year as have celebrations in Marietta, Duluth, Lawrenceville, Suwanee, and Lilburn. Two of the largest and most popular locations, in Centennial Olympic Park and Stone Mountain, both announced that their shows have been canceled.

There are a few cities that will still allow you to get your annual Independence Day fireworks fix:

•     The city of Tucker will host a fireworks show and concert on July 3. Residents are asked to find a socially distant spot on or around Main Street to watch the fireworks, or watch a live stream of the show on the city’s social media channels.

•     On Friday, July 3, DeKalb County is hosting a drive-in movie night and fireworks show at The Gallery at South DeKalb mall. The socially distanced event is free, but only the first 200 cars and 50 people who walk up will be able to attend.

It’s a given that residential fireworks are still going to take place and neighborhood displays may offer the best option for local viewing. Presently, laws regarding permissible uses of fireworks are set by the State of Georgia, and that law allows fireworks until 11:59 p.m. on Independence Day. Should you choose to use fireworks at home, here are a few reminders on fireworks safety from the National Safety Council:

•     Never allow young children to handle fireworks

•     Older children should use them only under close adult supervision

•     Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol

•     Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands

•     Never light them indoors

•     Only light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting

For more fireworks safety tips, go to http://ow.ly/MtZe30qViKo

 

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