posted by:heatherkenney

We always go check out the local Fireworks celebrations and leave the pyro to the experts but if you plan on having a July 4th party at home that includes your own display, please use caution. 

Some easy tips to keep your July 4th celebrations fun and safe:

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your town. Seriously, if it's not legal...and especially if your kid's old enough to know it's not legal...don't use them.

• Always have water nearby (a bucket or hose) for emergencies.

• Don't let kids light fireworks. Ever.

• Little kids love to hold sparklers and you may be inclined to let them because they look relatively safe. Think again. Those sparklers can reach a temperature of more than 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. Give young children (the under-12 crowd) glow sticks...they're just as fun and won't light their hair on fire or cause serious burns.

• You should also make sure kids are a safe distance away from any fireworks being lit.

• Teach your kids not to pick up fireworks on the ground. They could still be hot or "duds." Tell them to get an adult to check it out.

• Remind children not to play with matches.

• Make it even easier -- just go check out a professional fireworks show near you. No mess, no clean up, no worries.

If you need more information, check out the National Council on Firework Safety:  http://www.fireworksafety.com/
Do you light fireworks for (and with) your kids?