Fourth of July fireworks, pet safety tips 2024

The dangers of fireworks

The Fourth of July is coming up, which means many people will be setting off fireworks and metro Atlanta firefighters want to make sure you are using them safely. First responders had a demonstration on fireworks safety.

ATLANTA - The Fourth of July is just around the corner, and while it's an exciting time with all sorts of festivities and beautiful fireworks displays around town, people often forget just how dangerous it can be. Here are some tips to enjoy the holiday safely.

The first tip is to keep your head on a swivel. Just like they say at the airport, "If you see something, say something." You can report suspicious activity and crime to 911.

If you're going to drink, plan ahead. You can take MARTA or a rideshare service to and from any celebration.

If you plan to walk, try to be in a group and walk in well-lit areas.

If you're going to drive, never leave your car running unattended. As always, never leave your personal items in the car, especially not a gun.

Staying safe on Georgia's waterways

Forecasters expect the long Fourth of July weekend will be a summer scorcher. Many will look for any relief to beat the heat, including heading to Lake Lanier. Game wardens are preparing to keep people safe on the water.

If you plan to be out on the water, practice water safety. In 2023, there were 53 reported drownings in Georgia's waterways and 20 boating-related deaths. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources said they arrested more than 250 for boating under the influence (BUI). Something as simple as wearing a life jacket could make the difference between life and death.

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Atlanta Motor Speedway fireworks show

A large crowd turned out at Atlanta Motor Speedway for the Fr8Auctions.com Fireworks Extravaganza. Organizers call it the biggest fireworks show on Atlanta’s Southside.

If you're putting on your own fireworks display, do not allow small children to handle anything, including sparklers. They can get up to 1,000 degrees. Atlanta police also suggest only lighting one firework at a time.

Stand 150 feet away from lit fireworks and soak them in water before disposing of them after the show is over. Never re-ignite a firework that did not work properly the first time.

If you want to enjoy legal fireworks safely, or if you're planning to run in the Peachtree Road race, check out the many events going on around metro Atlanta. FOX 5 Atlanta put together a list of them here.

Tips to get anxious pets through Fourth of July fireworks

If you have a furry friend, you may need to do some prep work to make sure they're comfortable on the holiday too. Animal experts say the loud noises and bright lights can be very stressful for them. In fact, more pet runaways happen on Independence Day than any other day of the year, according to various animal shelter reports.

Before the fireworks show

Play a game or go for a long walk during the day so they won’t be so wound up later.
Close your blinds, curtains, and windows. Animals have been known to jump fences, break chains, and even leap through glass windows.
Be certain their collar identification and microchip is up-to-date in case they get loose.
Select a cool and quiet room where the noise will be at a minimum.