FRANKLIN COUNTY-The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office wishes you and your family a safe and exciting Fourth of July holiday! The Fourth of July, known as Independence Day, celebrates our independence as a nation on July 4, 1776. To learn more about the History of America’s Independence Day, please visit the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).
As you celebrate with friends and family, we would like to remind you to be safe and take precautions to ensure the safety of our community.
We caution anyone traveling during the holiday to always wear your seat belt and never drive under the influence of drugs
Franklin County Sheriff Shannon Oliver
or alcohol. Instead, plan for a designated driver to get you home safely. Not only do you risk your life when you drive impaired, but you also put the other drivers and passengers you share the roadway with at risk as well.
Additionally, it is important to remember that fireworks can pose a fire and safety hazard to those who use them.
Before shooting fireworks, please review the following safety tips from The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):
- After fireworks complete their burning, to prevent a trash fire, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding the device.
- Always read warning labels and performance descriptions before lighting a firework.
- Ensure fireworks are legal in your area before purchasing or using them.
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
- Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse, and move to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks
- Only light fireworks one at a time.
- Only use fireworks outdoors, away from buildings and vehicles, and never point/throw fireworks at anyone.
For more information on firework safety, please visit the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Hoping you and your family have a great Fourth of July holiday!
Sheriff Shannon Oliver
