Summer is synonymous with barbecues, parades, and fireworks. The National Safety Council advises everyone to enjoy fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals and not to use any fireworks at home. They may be legal but they are not always safe. 

Additionally, fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires each year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires and nearly 17,000 other fires. Better yet, grab a blanket and a patch of lawn, kick back, and let the experts handle the fireworks show. 

Every year, young children can be found along parade routes and at festivals with sparklers in hand, but sparklers are a lot more dangerous than most people think. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals. Sparklers can quickly ignite clothing and children have received severe burns from dropping sparklers on their feet. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries. For children under 5 years of age, sparklers accounted for nearly half of the total estimated injuries. Consider using safer alternatives, such as glow sticks, confetti poppers or colored streamers.

The 4th of July stands out as THE summer holiday for family, friends, barbeques, and fireworks. Fireworks can brighten celebrations, and proper fireworks safety can help keep festivities going longer and can protect spectators from injury. If you are going to have fireworks at your gathering, be sure to do so safely.