Fourth of July Holiday Safety

The Jones County Sheriff's Office wishes you and your family a safe and exciting Fourth of July holiday this Friday! The Fourth of July, known as Independence Day, celebrates our independence as a nation on July 4, 1776.

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 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. You will see an enhanced presence of Jones County Sheriff's Department deputies patrolling the roadways seeking out impaired drivers over the three day holiday weekend.

Additionally, it is important to remember that fireworks can pose a fire and safety hazard to those who use them if manufacturer safety precautions are not followed. 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, grass, brush, or woods fire, douse the spent firework 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.

Fireworks are beautiful and bring joy to thousands of Jones County residents each year during celebrations. There are several local vendors in Jones County who are selling fireworks and we encourage residents to shop right here at home.
Hoping you and your family have a great Fourth of July holiday!

Sheriff Joe Berlin