The Augusta Fire Department reminds local residents that although the Fourth of July is a fun time for family and friends to gather and celebrate, it can also be dangerous if proper safety measures are not taken into account.
In 2020, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reported at least 18 people died from fireworks-related incidents, and about 15,600 people were treated in hospital emergency departments for fireworks injuries.
“We don’t want a celebration to turn into a tragedy,” said Jason DeHart, Augusta Fire Department, EMA.
Since 2020, the Augusta Fire Department has responded to 26 fireworks-related incidents during the Fourth of July holiday period. Those incidents have damaged homes, vehicles, property, and yards. According to National Fire Protection Association, more than 19,500 reported fires are started by fireworks annually.