06/29/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/29/2022 08:00
DATE: Thursday, June 23, 2022
CONTACT: Meghan Barwick, Public Information Officer
Telephone: (229) 671-2400
Lowndes County Reminds Residents to Be Considerate While Celebrating Independence Day
Lowndes County, Georgia: Independence Day marks a time for celebrations and gatherings with family and friends and Lowndes County would like to remind residents to be mindful and safe while celebrating.
According to Georgia law, fireworks are permitted in the unincorporated area of Lowndes County on July 4th from 10:00 a.m. until 11:59 p.m. The law requires those selling, purchasing, and igniting fireworks to be at least 18 years of age. Fireworks may not be used near or on public roads, streets, highways, or bridges, including neighborhood streets. Usage by any person under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is prohibited. Further, fireworks may not be ignited within any park, historic site, or recreational area owned by a government authority without the issuance of a special use permit.
Lowndes County Fire Rescue would like to encourage residents to attend local public shows instead of igniting fireworks on private property. In the event fireworks are enjoyed at home, please adhere to the following safety standards set forth by the National Council on Fireworks Safety:
Sparklers burn at a temperature of around 2000 degrees, which can cause third-degree burns. "Children should never handle sparklers without parent supervision," said Mark Maskule, Fire Marshal, Lowndes County Fire Rescue.
"If you are planning to use fireworks, we urge all residents to exercise caution and be mindful of your neighbors, local veterans, pets, and others who might be sensitive to noise," said Meghan Barwick, Lowndes County Public Information Officer. "Animals are often frightened by the loud noises. Pets tend to run away from the loud noises,".
According to the Humane Society of the United States, follow these four simple steps for keeping our furry friends safe during loud-and hot-warm weather festivities.
You should also ensure that your pet is microchipped and that the chip is properly registered with your current contact information. The Lowndes County Animal Shelter offers microchipping for $25.00. "Residents should bring a found animal to either a local Veterinarian's office or to the Shelter and have them scanned for a chip", said Barwick. "That is the quickest way for it to be reunited with its owner".
Lowndes County Sheriff Ashley Paulk is focusing enforcement on providing for the safety of all residents during the 4th of July holiday period. "The Lowndes County Sheriff's Office will be out in force for the duration of the holiday period. The observance and celebration of Independence Day should not be spoiled by insult or injury. Residents are encouraged to ignite fireworks by the law, drink responsibly, and designate a driver," stated Sheriff Paulk.
The Valdosta Lowndes County Parks and Recreation Authority (VLPRA) will host South Georgia's largest fireworks show on Monday, July 4 beginning at nightfall around 9:15 am. Their fireworks show is free and can be seen from the mall side of I-75 between exits 16 and 18- just look west towards Brooks County. If there is rain, VLPRA will hold the show on Tuesday, July 5. VLPRA encourages families to arrive early to find parking and would like to remind the public to not stop on the interstate or interstate ramps to see the show.
For more information, please contact Lowndes County Public Information Officer, Meghan Barwick, 229-671-2400, or [email protected].