- Purchase fireworks from reliable sources, never discharge homemade or illegal fireworks.
- Have a responsible adult in charge and never give fireworks to children.
- Prepare a safe environment outdoors for shooting off fireworks by selecting an area clear of other fireworks, combustible materials like dried wood or grass, buildings, and other people.
- Have water readily available such as a garden hose and a bucket of water.
- Always read and follow label directions for the safe discharge of fireworks. Fireworks users should wear tight clothing to avoid accidental contact with sparks and use eye protection when handling and lighting fireworks.
- Light fireworks one at a time and wait until it discharges, never attempt to re-light a device that did not discharge the first time it was lit.
Never carry fireworks in your pocket; they may ignite due to sparks and cause injury.
- Do not throw or point fireworks at people or animals. Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers
- Dispose of spent fireworks properly when you are done by soaking them in water before putting them in a trash can.
If you get burned from fireworks, remember these do's and don'ts of burn care. If the injury is severe, call 911 immediately for emergency medical care.
Do: Cool a burn by flushing with water
Do Not: Apply ice directly to any burn unless it's very minor
Do: Cover the burn with a dry, clean covering
Do Not:Touch a burn with anything except a clean covering
Do: Keep the victim comfortable and from
Do Not: Remove pieces of cloth that stick to the being chilled or overheated burned area.
Do Not: Break blisters or use any kind of ointment on a severe burn
For more tips and information, contact the Liberty Fire Department or visit www.fireworksafety.com. The Liberty Fire Department wishes all residents a safe and happy 4th of July.