With America’s birthday fast approaching, we’d like to offer a friendly safety reminder about July being National Fireworks Safety Month. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recognizes that, despite their dangers, fireworks are about as American as apple pie, so the CPSC offers these safety tips:

Don’t make homemade fireworks.
Use only fireworks that are permitted in your area. Check the CPSC’s website for a list of states and which fireworks they permit and prohibit.
Obey local laws.
Follow fireworks storage instructions, including keeping them in a dry, cool place.
Don’t allow young children to play with any fireworks, including sparklers.
Only allow older children to use fireworks under adult supervision.
Light fireworks outside in a clear area away from houses, dry leaves, grass, and other flammable materials.
Keep a bucket of water on hand in case of emergency.
Pour water over malfunctioning fireworks. Don’t try to make them work; soak them and throw them out.
Get everyone out of range before lighting fireworks. Also, keep unused fireworks out of the firing area.
Never have any body part over a firework when lighting.
Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.

So stay safe out there, everyone, and have an enjoyable Fourth of July weekend!