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Fireworks Safety Tips from All Star Fireworks
Who doesn't love a good fireworks display this time of year? Unfortunately, every year, thousands of people are injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents, with many of the injuries to children and young adults.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 11 reported fireworks-related deaths in 2022, the most recent year statistics are provided. While most of those deaths were associated with mortar-style devices, five of those deaths were associated with fireworks misuse, with victims ranging from 11 to 43 years of age. The report also showed there were an estimated 10,200 fireworks-related injuries in 2022, with 73 percent of those injuries occurring during the one month surrounding the July 4th holiday.
All Star Fireworks' owner Scott Lunsford's goal is to offer the best quality fireworks at the best prices, but the number one goal of his is to make sure people shoot fireworks safely! Find safety tips below on how to safely enjoy fireworks this season!
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Purchase fireworks from a licensed fireworks dealer (such as All-Star Fireworks),
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Observe all state laws regarding the use of fireworks,
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Read the labels carefully before igniting any fireworks,
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Ensure that an adult supervises all firework activities,
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NEVER ALLOW children to ignite fireworks,
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Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks,
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Light only one firework at a time,
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Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles,
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Never try to relight a firework,
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Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby,
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Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol,
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Never light fireworks indoors,
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Never point or throw fireworks at another person,
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Use caution around animals. Excitement, noise, and lights can cause fear and stress.
All Star Fireworks, located at 976 Highway 53 WSW in Calhoun (on the hill at the Spur), is carrying thousands of the latest and greatest in fireworks for the holiday...the largest selection in Northwest Georgia!
“The fireworks store is always fully stocked year-round, and this time of year is no exception,” said Lunsford. “I have fully stocked ground effects, kiddie items like sparklers and 3-inch cakes, which are the largest allowed in the state.”
Lunsford drew on his family experience in the fireworks field when he began All Star Fireworks in 2018.
“I have a passion for making people smile,” said Lunsford. “My family had 11 stores in Northwest Alabama for about 20 years before being bought out, so saying that I have been around fireworks my whole childhood isn’t an understatement.”
With the largest selection of fireworks in Northwest Georgia this Fourth of July holiday, the large, climate-controlled store, which has doubled in size since 2018, boasts a large variety of fireworks for the novice to experienced fireworks fan.
“We carry a wide array of 1.4 class fireworks,” said Lunsford. “I also carry around 15 of the best quality brands on the market. I carry everything ranging from kids novelties to the biggest 3-inch multi-shots available to the public.”
In addition to selling fireworks, Lunsford puts on pyrotechnic/ fireworks shows for a wide range of events, including the Fourth of July holiday.
“I do all types of 1.4 class shows for weddings, quinceanera, graduations, church events, festivals and all celebrations that require fireworks,” said Lunsford. “There is nothing I love more than to hear the stories from people that have bought from me and just how pleased and excited they were to see the fireworks go off!”
His success in fireworks led to the All Star Fireworks store in Ellijay, which opened a few of years ago and has proved to be hugely successful as well.
And while Lunsford’s goal is to offer the best quality fireworks at the best prices, his main priority is to make sure people shoot fireworks safely, something he’s learned from his time working in the insurance business as owner of Lunsford Agency Insurance.
“At All Star Fireworks, we strive to offer our customers the best quality, best performing firework the market has to offer, but our number one goal is safety,” said Lunsford. “Never underestimate the power fireworks have. Always respect fireworks and follow all safety procedures. That is very, very important to me.”
In addition, Lunsford adds the following safety tips for the public to remember when shooting fireworks:
-Purchase fireworks from a licensed fireworks dealer (such as All-Star Fireworks),
-Observe all state laws regarding the use of fireworks,
-Read the labels carefully before igniting any fireworks,
-Ensure that an adult supervises all firework activities,
-NEVER ALLOW children to ignite fireworks,
-Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks,
-Light only one firework at a time,
-Only use fireworks outdoors in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles,
-Never try to relight a firework,
-Have a garden hose or bucket of water nearby,
-Use caution with animals. Excitement, noise, and lights can cause fear and stress.
Lunsford adds that a benefit of his fireworks store is that he’s open year-round.
“We are open year round so I tell people to please never hesitate to call me with any questions you have, special orders you may need, or just need fireworks for your event or to have fun with,” said Lunsford.
And after the Fourth of July holiday, Lunsford will direct his attention to his other huge venture: All Star Halloween, which is located on the same property as the All Star Fireworks store. All Star Halloween is a permanent, year-round store able to offer items for decorations, Halloween parties, haunted houses and costumes…not just at Halloween, but year round as needed.
There will be extended hours this week for all your fireworks needs at All Star Fireworks! Visit them at 976 Hwy 53 WSW in Calhoun, on the hill!