It's unfortunate, but public safety agencies tend to experience a rise in incidents, accidents, injuries, and fatalities during holidays. With the 4th of July weekend upon us, we want to remind you to exercise vigilance while you are celebrating with your family and friends.
According to the Georgia Department of Public Safety, 22 people lost their lives in vehicle accidents during the 2008 4th of July holiday period (2 of these were alcohol related). There were 1,860 accidents resulting in 910 injuries during that same period. The DPS is estimating 1,874 crashes, 895 injuries and 22 fatalities during the 2009 4th of July period.
Law enforcement agencies across the State will be increasing traffic enforcement and DUI checkpoints this weekend in order to hopefully reduce accidents, injuries, and fatalities so please be mindful of this and don't drink and drive.
Boating is a favorite summertime activity for many families and recreational activity is expected to be very high on lakes across the State this weekend. Consequently, I want to bring the following boating statistics to your attention: The Department of Natural Resources reports that there were a total of 145 boating incidents in Georgia in 2008 including 62 drownings, 86 injuries, 11 non-drowning fatalities, 12 alcohol related accidents, and 37 personal watercraft accidents.
The DNR offers a very informative boater's safety website at http://www.georgiawildlife.org/boatereducation_boating.aspx.
And finally, fireworks tend to be an essential part of the holiday for many families. Some fireworks are legal in the State of Georgia - these include: Sparklers up to 100 grams each; fountains (items that say 'Emits Showers of Sparks') up to 200 grams total for multiple tube items or 75 grams for each individual tube; snakes, glow worms, snappers, party poppers. However, any fireworks that you have to cross state lines to purchase are expressly illegal in our State and are subject to being confiscated under OCGA 25-10-6.
Fireworks are notoriously dangerous if misused and frequently cause fires. Due to the long dry period we have been experiencing, we must ask that our residents refrain from firing illegal fireworks and we will take action against illegal use if necessary in order to ensure the safety of other residents and their property.
Our administrative offices will be closed Friday July 3rd and will re-open Monday July 6th. Please call 911 or 770-461-HELP(4357) if you need police assistance.
I hope you and your family have a safe and enjoyable 4th of July weekend.