ATLANTA (AP) - State Fire Commissioner Ralph Hudgens is urging Georgians to use caution with sparklers as the July 4th holiday approaches.
Hudgens said Tuesday that sparklers aren't considered illegal in the state although all other fireworks are. Hudgens says sparklers can burn at temperatures of up to 1,800 degrees and should be properly used under adult supervision.
Hudgens says about 8,000 people are treated for firework-related injuries annually and most of them are children.
Hudgens says use of illegal fireworks is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 or a year in jail.
The fire commissioner will participate in safety demonstrations at the Columbus Fire Department Thursday morning and the Macon Fire Department Friday afternoon.
