The National Council on Fireworks Safety offers these common sense safety tips for using consumer fireworks in the hopes that injuries to consumers can be greatly reduced this season.
To that end, they offer the following tips:
•Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.
•Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.
•Fireworks should only be used outdoors.
•Always have water ready if you are using fireworks.
•Know your fireworks; read the caution label before igniting.
•Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.
•Only light one firework at a time.
•Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
•Avoid using homemade fireworks or illegal explosives.
•Lastly, soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor, fire resistant garbage can away from buildings and flammable materials.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Fireworks safety tips for a happy Fourth of July