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Every year on July 4th, families and friends get together to watch beautiful, amazing fireworks illuminate the sky. While the vibrant event brings joy and excitement to many, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission provides that many children and adults suffer injuries from fireworks misuse. This misuse may include igniting fireworks too close to someone, lighting fireworks improperly, lighting fireworks in one’s hand, playing with lit or used fireworks and setting off fireworks improperly.

An adult should always be present when handling fireworks. More important, all labels and instructions should be read before using fireworks. To learn more about fireworks safety, we also recommend these tips from the National Safety Council:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
• Older children should use fireworks only under close adult supervision.
• Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from onlookers, houses and flammable materials.
• Light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance after lighting.
• Do not allow any running or horseplay while fireworks are being used.
• Never ignite devices in a container.
• Do not try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks, douse and soak them with water and discard them safely.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby to fully extinguish fireworks that don't go off or in case of fire.

See more Crime Prevention Tips.