How to Celebrate Independence Day Safely

Independence Day is a day of celebration, fun, and relaxation. However, it can also be a very dangerous day. This July 4, follow these steps to minimize injury and maximize holiday excitement.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Common Sense
• Safety Goggles

1. 

   Know your local laws. Fireworks are the most popular celebratory item on July 4. One month before the holiday, roadside tents and vendor stands pop up to provide fire power to the masses. Fireworks are not legal in some areas due to city ordinances or fire codes. Check with your local police station or fire department for rules about when and where you can ignite the sky.

2. 

   Read the labels and instructions on the fireworks before using them or giving them to others. You need to know how the fireworks function before buying. Ask the employee at the firework stand. Many times, they have tested out some or all of the items.

3. 

   Use fireworks in an open, safe place. Do not light fireworks indoors or in crowded places. Make sure everyone nearby knows that live fireworks are in use. Avoid excess consumption of alcohol to reduce the risk of dangerous mistakes. Keep a fire extinguisher handy in case things get out of hand.

4. 

   If you want to save money and still enjoy a beautiful display of colors and lights, many cities have large firework displays in the evening that are free for the public. Check your local newspaper for a listing of July 4 celebrations.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear protective goggles or other eye wear when lighting fireworks.
• Firework stands usually sell their leftover stock on July 5. You can get great deals on fireworks at this time.
• Never stand directly over the firework you are lighting.
• Never light fireworks in your hand.
• Use a long igniting punk or lighter. Don't use matches, lighter, or other open flame directly on fireworks.

[mattsaboy]

on 8/26/2009 Great article. 5 stars

[lilolladystuff]

on 7/11/2009 Great tips and a very useful article on fireworks. Thank you.

[ampersand]

on 6/30/2009 Great suggestions for a safe and fun fourth!

[bakerthebrand]

on 6/30/2009 Great tips on how to have fun and safe on this day. Independence day is a fun time, but let's be safe first.

[Muzikpeach]

on 6/30/2009 Best way to enjoy fireworks display is watch the professional displays! They are free and your family and property can remain at a safe distance! Most home fireworks are set off by someone who has usually had too much to drink and if no one, or no property is damaged, they are incredibly lucky! I am from California and fireworks are illegal here (which I agree with!) It is distressing to hear someone in the neighborhood setting off bottle rockets all during the night, endangering property and life. A bottle rocket set a fire near my home that did quite a bit of damage! Luckily they caught the guy and charged him! Leave the displays to the professionals!