By Bryony Wardell

When the clock strikes midnight, remember that it’s best to leave fireworks to the professionals.  But if you choose to use fireworks, also choose to protect yourself, your family members and your friends.

Fireworks can cause serious injuries, including burns, contusions, lacerations and eye injuries and can even be deadly.

Safety Tips!

Smart Purchasing

Please obey local and state laws regarding the sale and use of state approved fireworks.Buy only consumer-grade fireworks.  Avoid buying fireworks packaged in a brown bag, which often means they were made for professional displays and could be dangerous for consumer use.

Handle with care

Read all warning labels and follow directions on each device. Never put your head or any part of your body over a firework. Never hold a lit firework in your hand.Fireworks should not be carried in your pocket. Don’t aim or throw fireworks at another person. Store fireworks in a cool, dry place and keep a fire extinguisher of water bucket handy.

Adult supervision

Firework activities should be adult led, and adults should never allow children to handle or ignite fireworks.  Make sure you, your kids, and others watch from a safe distance.

Safe lighting

Light from the side (never standing directly over) using a blunt or handheld igniter.  Wear protective eyewear.  Remember that a dud is a dud, and you should never attempt to re-light a short fuse or a firework dud.   And, call 911 immediately if someone is injured from fireworks.

For more information on firework safety, visit www.cdc.gov/family/minutes/tips/fireworks/.