Nothing completes Fourth of July festivities like a brightly colored fireworks display.  The vibrant colors, along with the "pops", "booms", and "bangs" are as much a part of this favorite summer holiday as hotdogs on the grill and fresh cut watermelon.

But be careful -- fireworks are capable of causing as much pain as fun.  If handled incorrectly, fireworks can cause burn and eye injuries in children and adults alike.         

To play it safe with fireworks, leave the lighting to the professionals and attend public displays. If you are set on enjoying fireworks at home, the first thing you need to do is check with your local police department to see if fireworks are legal in your neighborhood.  If they are legal where you live, dig a little deeper and find out which types of fireworks are permitted under the laws of the state and local jurisdiction.   And always remember to read directions, labels, and warnings on each individual firework so you understand the hazards associated with the product. 

Get prepared to enjoy your holiday display by finding a clear, open area away from buildings, vehicles, and shrubbery.  Fireworks have been known to backfire or shoot off in the wrong direction, so keep your family and friends at a safe distance away from where you are shooting.  You will need a clear radius of at least 40 feet for different types of ground-based fireworks such as fountains, as well as 100 yards for aerial products. Make sure your surface is hard and flat to ensure stability when shooting off fireworks.  Try to stay away from grass, but if that’s your only option, put down a flat wooden board for a stable shooting surface.

When you're ready to start your fireworks display, always light your product with a punk, flare, or extended butane lighting device.  This helps you stay as far away as possible from the firework.  If you are in an extremely dark area, use a small flashlight to easily find the fuse and prevent any fumbling. 

To take extra precaution, safety glasses are recommended for those who are in charge of shooting off the fireworks, as well as those who are in close proximity of enjoying them.  Also, always have an accessible fire extinguisher, water supply, hose, or bucket of water nearby for emergencies.  There should be an individual assigned at your firework display as a "fireman".  This individual’s sole job is to be alert and ready with a water source in case of emergency.    

Only light one firework at time, and never attempt to re-light, fix, or alter a "dud".  If that product fails to ignite, let it stand for at least five minutes.  Then, to play it safe, immerse the "dud" in water.

After your display has been safely shot off, soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash.  Some pieces my still be ignited after they are shot, and this prevents them from exploding, as well as setting anything on fire.

Take these extra precautions this summer to make sure all of your family and friends will have a "blast" at your fireworks display!  And for more information on firework safety, please click here to visit the National Council of Firework Safety.