MOULTRIE, Ga. (WALB) - A Colquitt County family is sharing a frightening Fourth of July experience after fireworks tipped over and began firing in unintended directions during a backyard celebration.

Homeowner Susanne Lee said her family has set off fireworks in their driveway for more than 10 years without incident.

“We’ve done fireworks in our driveway for years, ever since my kids were little, and this is the first time that we have all had any kind of experience like this,” Lee said. “And we always take precautions. We always have a hose ready. It was just chaos when it first started happening because it was completely unexpected.”

Lee said some of the fireworks tipped over, firing under cars and toward homes, causing her family to fear the worst.

“When we first saw the fireworks start shooting everywhere, we just got really scared and they were going under vehicles and stuff,” Lee said. “So the thought that maybe one of them would catch on fire, the houses would catch on fire. It was just a really scary time.”

Lee said no injuries were reported, and first responders were not needed. She said she wants her experience to serve as a warning to other families.

“No law enforcement was needed. We didn’t need to call 911 or anything like that,” Lee said. “Even though this is something that we have done for years, we did not expect it. It can happen at any moment and you should always use caution, be extra prepared. Have fun, but be careful.”

Officials recommend setting off fireworks in a safe, open area away from homes and dry grass. They also advise keeping a bucket of water or hose nearby and not allowing children to handle fireworks without adult supervision.

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