Fourth of July Safety Tips

Fireworks cause over 19,000 fires every year. Take the proper precautions when operating fireworks.

• Never disassemble or try to make your own fireworks.

• Don't point sparklers or fireworks at yourself or others, especially when lighting them.

• Only light fireworks on the ground and in dry and fire-resistant areas.

• Don't attempt to ignite fireworks at the same time.

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers to prevent firework-related injuries.

• Always keep a portable fire extinguisher close by. Also, keep a water hose or buckets of water nearby to put out fires.

• If fireworks malfunction, don't relight them! Douse and soak malfunctioning fireworks with water, then throw them away.

• Resist the urge to bring your dog to a fireworks display. The safest place for them is at home, where it's familiar, quiet, and not crowded.

Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers to prevent firework-related injuries. Sparklers are hot enough to cause severe burns if mishandled.

• Instead of sparklers for your children, consider these alternatives:

• Glow sticks

• A confetti canon or poppers

• Colorful streamers

• Silly string

• A light-up laser show or digital fireworks projection