July 2nd, 2023 by WCBC Radio

Fireworks are a traditional part of Independence Day celebrations, but they can also be dangerous.  9,000 fireworks-related injuries occur each year, 21 percent are eye injuries and more than half of the victims are young children or teenagers.    

The best safety tip is to attend a public fireworks display and leave the show to the professionals but if you want to celebrate on your own…
Keep a bucket of water on hand for sparklers and other fireworks after use

Never attempt to re-light fireworks that did not fully ignite the first time

 Never use fireworks in combination with alcohol and other drugs

Never allow children to use fireworks or sparklers

Light fireworks one at a time and move away quickly after igniting

Look up your county's local fireworks rules to ensure you are using only legal fireworks products