ATLANTA, GA — ATLANTA — Atlanta authorities including police and fire officials, announced safety measures ahead of several major events and celebrations that will attract thousands of people to the city.

“On behalf of Atlanta Fire Chief Rod Smith and the men and women of the Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department. If you choose to use legal fireworks during your New Year’s celebrations, we want to ask that you never place live fireworks in the hands of any children, “said Charles R. Hampton Jr., the Chief of Staff for the Atlanta Fire and Rescue Department.

Officials strongly encouraged anyone eager to use fireworks to be cautious.

“Older children should never use fireworks without an adult watching or nearby,” Hampton Jr. said. “Never use fireworks if you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Anyone using fireworks or standing near fireworks should have ear plugs, ear protection and eye protection as well as be in an open space. Anyone using fireworks should never light them and keep that item in their hands.”

“Remember, the best celebrations are the ones where everyone gets home safely. Let’s make New Years is one for the books. We want to make sure MARTA is your first choice. We’re here to make sure you skip the parking nightmare in the city and take advantage of MARTA and their resources,” said Solomon Caviness, the Transportation Commissioner for the City of Atlanta.

Among other safety tips was never lighting them indoors and only use them away from houses, businesses and structures and only light one device at a time.

Authorities also encouraged people attending the Peach Drop to use MARTA services.

Caviness said for anyone who must drive during the holidays,