Oxendine said

that approximately 7,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms

every year for fireworks-related injuries, and most of those incidents

involve children.

"Not only

is there a strong possibility of personal injury, but also extensive property

damage caused by fireworks," Commissioner Oxendine said. "Wildfires

in dry conditions can spread rapidly and cause millions of dollars in

damage."

He added that

in a typical year, two-thirds to three-fourths of all fireworks injuries

occur during the four-week period surrounding Independence Day. On the

Fourth of July itself, fireworks usually start more fires nationwide than

all other causes combined.

The sale and

use of any type of fireworks, including firecrackers, cherry bombs and

sparklers, are illegal in Georgia and punishable by a maximum fine of

up to $1,000 and a sentence of up to one year in jail.

Oxendine recommends

attending public fireworks displays by licensed specialists instead of

private functions where fireworks may be used illegally. "For your

own safety and for the protection of your family, let's leave the fireworks

to the professionals, sit back and enjoy the show."