Bibb deputies warn against illegal celebratory gunfire

Bibb County sheriff's deputies do not want anyone ringing in the new year with gunfire.

A news release warns that discharging a firearm is dangerous and can be against the law.

Firing a weapon within 50 yards of a public street or highway is illegal.

"When you fire something up into the air, it must come down," the release said. "Stray bullets can damage personal property, and it can cause personal injury or even death."

A bullet fired into the air can travel about 219 mph on the way down before reaching the ground.

Also, fireworks are only allowed between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 a.m. New Year's Eve and no one under 18 should be lighting fireworks, officials said in the release.

Anyone hearing gunfire or seeing anything suspicious is asked to call the Bibb County Sheriff's Office at 478-751-7500.

This story was originally published December 31, 2015 at 3:22 PM with the headline "Bibb deputies warn against illegal celebratory gunfire ."