RCFS offers firework safety tips with 4th of July on the horizon

With Independence Day a little over a week away, many Rabunites have already begun planning their celebratory activities, many including plans to fill the sky with fireworks in a patriotic display of pride for their country.

However, as with any scenarios involving pyrotechnics, some precautionary actions should be kept in mind to prevent disasters according to Assistant Fire Chief Justin Upchurch with Rabun County Fire Services.

Fortunately, with the influx of rain Rabun, has had in the past week, the danger level has been significantly decreased – but he said to still exercise caution.

“In the past several days we have gotten a decent amount of rain which has taken us out of the drought stage which cuts down on the dangers of fireworks causing problems, but it doesn’t take but a week or so for it to dry up and raise that threat again,” he said.

Upchurch said for those who plan to use fireworks, make sure to find an open area away from too much vegetation.

“The safest place is going to be an open area without any structures nearby, or a grassy area with a lot of trees,” he said. “That way you don’t have to worry about them getting into the tops of trees or into any leaf litter which could easily ignite and cause a fire.”

Above all, Upchurch said to just be cautious – it only takes one accident to make things go awry.