Chief McKinley: The utmost care should be used when dealing with fireworks

From Apopka Police Chief Michael McKinley

With 4th of July upon us, Americans everywhere will be shooting up fireworks to celebrate our country's independence. However, this tradition can be a dangerous one. Fireworks cause significant injuries every year and the utmost care should be used when dealing with fireworks.

Apopka Police Chief Michael McKinley

Many times, individuals involved in celebrating holidays such as Independence Day with gunfire do not realize the dangers posed in their actions. Research has found that a bullet fired into the sky can climb up to two miles and remain in flight for more than a minute. As it falls, the bullet reaches a velocity of 300 to 700 feet per second which can kill or seriously injure someone.

790.15 Discharging firearm in public or on residential property.—

(1) Except as provided in subsection (2) or subsection (3), any person who knowingly discharges a firearm in any public place or on the right-of-way of any paved public road, highway, or street, who knowingly discharges any firearm over the right-of-way of any paved public road, highway, or street or over any occupied premises, or who recklessly or negligently discharges a firearm outdoors on any property used primarily as the site of a dwelling as defined in s. 776.013 or zoned exclusively for residential use commits a misdemeanor of the first degree.

Please have a fun but safe July 4th Apopka!