WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — Part of plenty of Central Georgians' Independence Day celebrations will include fireworks, and while they are a fun part of the holiday, they can also be dangerous.
Freedom Fireworks owner Bob Butler says he always sees an uptick in sales during the summer.
"Business definitely picks up around this time of the year, from weddings to birthdays, to the Fourth of July and family reunions," Butler said.
One of his most loyal customers is Jenie Head, whose family holds a big celebration every year.
"Oh, it's a big deal. Our grandsons always look forward to it. We do a cookout prior to and then enjoy the fireworks," Head said.
Butler and safety experts like the Macon-Bibb Fire Department warn that fireworks can be fun, but you can take easy steps to be safe.
"Make sure you keep a safe distance, a working distance from the devices themselves and attendees who may be at your event," said fire chief, Marvin Riggins.
Other tips include wearing protective gear like gloves and eyewear, bracing fireworks with bricks, and making sure adults are handling the explosives. The state fire marshal's office also warns people to make sure they're buying their fireworks from licensed dealers.
Chief Riggins said people should also keep an eye out for weather conditions including dry grass, wind direction, and wind speed. Fireworks should also stay away from structures. Butler recommends at least 300 feet.
Following those tips can ensure the holiday is full of happy memories and not about trips to the emergency room or 911 calls.
"It's only a couple times of year, so we just want to make sure you're brushed up so that things won't happen, so it won't change from a great memory into a memory that you will never do fireworks again," Butler said.
Freedom Fireworks has locations on Watson Boulevard and Russell Parkway in Warner Robins and on Highway 441 South and Central Drive East in Dublin. The shop said anyone who participates in a short safety training between Friday and July 3rd will be eligible to win free fireworks.