The National Council on Fireworks Safety has some tips that are important to keep in mind this July 4.

1. Read the warning or caution label carefully and follow all directions before lighting a firework.

2. Always buy from a reliable seller to ensure that you are buying quality legal fireworks.

3. Always light fireworks outdoors away from combustible material, buildings and plants.

4. It’s always good to have water handy when having a fireworks display.

5. Light only one firework at a time.

6. If a firework does not work after lighting it, do not try to re-light it.

7. Small children should not handle and light fireworks.

8. If a firework fails to work after lighting it, wait for 15 to 20 minutes and then dump the firework in a bucket of water and let it soak.

9. If at all possible, don’t store fireworks. If you have to store them, store them in a cool dry place and keep them out of the reach of children.

10. Dispose of discharged fireworks by soaking them in a bucket of water before disposing of them in a trashcan.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (“CPSC”), approximately 16 percent of all consumer fireworks injuries are caused by sparklers burning hands and legs, with the majority of sparkler injuries occurring to young children. In fact, sparkler injuries accounted for one-third of all firework injuries to children five years old or younger. These injuries could have been prevented with close adult supervision and if some basic safety steps had been taken.

Safety Tips for Sparklers:

1. Sparkles should ALWAYS be used under close adult supervision.

2. Always remain standing while using sparklers.

3. Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.
4. Never hold, or light, more than one sparkler at a time. Sparklers and bare feet can be a painful combination. Always wear closed-toe shoes when using sparklers.

5. The sparkler wire and stick remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop the spent sparklers directly in a bucket of water.

6. Never hand a lighted sparkler to another person. Give them the unlit sparkler and then light it.

7. Always stand at least 6 feet from another person while using sparklers.

8. Never throw sparklers.

9. Show children how to hold sparklers away from their body and at arm’s length.

10. Teach children not to wave sparklers, especially wooden stick sparklers or run while holding sparklers.

For more information visit: http://www.fireworksafety.com/test_questions.pdf