FIREWORKS SAFETY PREVENTS FIRES AND INJURIES

No one plans to spend their Independence Day in the emergency room or cleaning up after a house fire, but many do each year because of fireworks, according to the Tuscaloosa Fire and Rescue Service.

Of the more than 9,000 fireworks injuries that occur in the US each year, about 45 percent are to children 15 and under. Most injuries are to their head and eyes. Firecrackers, sparklers and bottle rockets are the leading contributors.

Most fireworks-related fires begin in brush or trash and spread to wooded areas, homes and even automobiles. Others begin when fireworks, such as a bottle rocket, lands on a roof and ignite combustibles.

The safest way to enjoy Fourth of July celebrations is by attending public fireworks displays conducted by professionals, but if you choose to use fireworks, the following safety guidelines can help keep your July holiday activities enjoyable, fun and safe.

• Only adults should handle fireworks.
• Make sure spectators are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never try to re-ignite fireworks  malfunctioned
• Keep a bucket of water, a garden hose or a fire extinguisher near by.
• Never throw, point or shoot fireworks towards people, pets, buildings or vehicles.
• Do not use fireworks in wooded areas.
• Never let children play with or handle sparklers. The temperature of the ignited tip can reach 1200 degree F or greater.