About 300 people a day go to the ER with firework-related injuries around the Fourth of July. Don't be one of them. Here are the six most important fireworks safety tips you need to remember . . .
1. Make sure they're legal where you are. Some counties and cities can have their own bans, because they're a fire risk.
2. Never let young kids play with fireworks, or set them off. Even sparklers can cause serious burns. They get about as hot as a blow torch.
3. Never aim fireworks at people. That one seems obvious until you've had a few beers. Also, don't THROW fireworks at people, or carry them around in your pocket. And keep an eye on teenagers who might try something dumb.
4. Never place any part of your body directly over a firework while lighting it. Especially your face. Then as soon as it's lit, get to a safe distance.
5. Always have a bucket of water or a hose handy in case of a fire. Or to douse fireworks that don't go off.
6. Know how to deal with a dud. Never re-light a firework that doesn't go off. Wait for it to stop burning . . . douse it with a hose . . . then fully submerge it in a bucket of water. Soak small fireworks for 15 minutes, and larger ones for a few hours. Then before you toss them, tie them up in TWO plastic bags, so they won't dry out.