The fourth of July holiday is a time for friends and family to gather for barbeque, picnics, parades, games and a whole lot of fireworks. It can also mean an increase in injuries and even death related incidences. According to the Washington State Patrol, Office of the State Fire Marshal, there were 432 fireworks-related emergency incidents in Washington in 2014 resulting in $320,240 in property loss, 277 injuries and 155 fires. The fourth of July can be a safe and fun holiday if you take the right precautions for proper firework safety and use.

1. Do not let children light off fireworks, always have an adult light them
2. Keep matches, lighters and fireworks out of children’s reach
3. Once you light a firework, one at a time, back away quickly
4. Ensure fireworks are legal in your area
5. Keep a hose, fire extinguisher or a bucket of water handy in case of fire
6. Closely supervise children around fireworks at all times
7. Do not wear loose fitting clothing when lighting them
8. Do not light fireworks off indoors or near dry grass
9. Never try to relight a firework
10. If someone does become seriously injured from a firework, head straight to the hospital
11. Attend a professional fireworks show instead of lighting them off yourself