() – As families in the CSRA gear up to celebrate the New Year, local police and fireworks vendors are emphasizing the importance of safety and legal awareness before setting off any fireworks.

Officers report that a major issue during New Year’s festivities is not only the use of illegal fireworks but also the lack of awareness about local regulations.

“All the fireworks in our store comply with South Carolina’s fire marshal standards,” stated Alivia Ansley from Wacky Wayne’s Fireworks.

These standards are in place to minimize the potential for fires, injuries, and disruptions. However, fireworks laws can differ whether you’re in Georgia or South Carolina—and can even vary by city or county.

In Georgia and several South Carolina areas, fireworks are prohibited within 100 yards of public roads, hospitals, nursing homes, or gas stations.

“You don’t want to cause any kind of disturbance with that,” said Staff Sgt. Tim Johnson with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office.

South Carolina has laws regarding fireworks, but usage is primarily set by local city and county ordinances.  

In North Augusta, for example, fireworks cannot be used within 300 feet of a fireworks store or temporary roadside tent selling fireworks, Ansley said.  

South Carolina law allows fireworks purchases at age 16, while Georgia requires buyers to be at least 18.

On the Georgia side, fireworks can be used from 10 a.m. to midnight on most days, with extended hours until 1 a.m. on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.  In South Carolina, most cities and counties allow fireworks to be launched until 1 a.m., as well. 

With those rules in mind, deputies say taking a few basic safety precautions can help keep celebrations from turning dangerous.

“Make sure you’re aware of your neighbors and aware of your surroundings,” Johnson said. 

“Have water on the scene just in case something comes down and still sparks.”

Law enforcement officials remind residents that violating state laws or local ordinances could result in fines or citations.