We know many will celebrate the holiday with fireworks. We want you to have a safe holiday so we reached out to our Safety Coordinator, Matt Thomas, for his advice. Here’s what he had to share with us:

Most people celebrate by watching a local, professional show—supervised by firefighters. But if you’re starting the performance early with consumer fireworks, here are some tips: 

• Your fireworks might be legal, but that doesn’t mean they are safe. The U.S. Fire Administration reports thousands of fireworks-related injuries each summer. The biggest threat: firecrackers, followed by bottle rockets, and sparklers, which burn at about 2,000 degrees. 
• Fireworks are especially dangerous when used near power lines, so stay clear. Light fireworks only in open areas where no power lines can be seen, and call us immediately if your celebration gets tangled in an overhead wire.
• Children should be spectators, not participants, in the show. Never give children fireworks or sparklers.
• Read and carefully follow directions and warning labels. Most injuries result from improper use.

While celebrating Independence Day, take the necessary precautions to ensure a safe holiday. Make yourself aware of your surroundings—stay clear of power lines, structures, and vehicles when shooting fireworks.