Fourth of July fireworks can turn a fun-filled celebration into a painful memory if you do not exercise caution. Even the most innocent-looking fireworks can cause injury or a fire. For example, a sparkler can reach 1,800° F, a temperature hot enough to melt gold. Keep reading to learn firework tips and facts to help keep your Independence Day celebration safe.

Firework Safety Tips

• Wear safety goggles when handling fireworks.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby when lighting fireworks. Soak fireworks that you lit or those that are duds.
• Do not light fireworks in a container, especially those made of glass or metal.
• Follow the packaging instructions for firework storage. Otherwise, store them in a cool, dry place.
• Always require adult supervision when children are around fireworks.
• Do not hold fireworks in your hand as you ignite them.
• Do not try to relight fireworks that malfunction.
• Ignite fireworks a safe distance from your home.
• Make sure your pets are in a safe place before lighting fireworks because the noise can scare them.

Remember this Independence Day: playing it safe with fireworks is more fun than being in the emergency room because of a preventable injury or seeing your house go up in flames.

Property damage as a result of fireworks

Fire prevention is important when fireworks are involved. According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks caused about 15,600 fires in the United States in 2013. 1,400 structures and 200 vehicles caught fire because of the lack of fireworks safety measures. The remaining 14,000 fires occurred outside or in other areas. Practicing appropriate fire prevention strategies, such as those listed above, can help reduce this number during the Fourth of July holiday.

The National Fire Protection Association also reports that a whopping 47 percent of all fires on the Fourth of July were started by fireworks. This means that almost half of total reported fires occurred because of the lack of fireworks safety measures. Having a fire safety plan can reduce the likelihood of property damage and decrease the risk of fire.

Practice good fire prevention and fireworks safety tips this Fourth of July and keep us all safe as we celebrate Independence Day. Happy Fourth of July!