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Enjoy holiday fireworks, but do it safely

By TIMES STAFF
Published July 1, 2007

Everyone wants to have a blast on the Fourth but the American Pyrotechnics Association also want to remind everyone that fireworks are serious business. Here are a few facts, viewing tips and safety precautions to assure a happy and safe holiday.

How can we best enjoy a display?

- Don't get too close. Sitting at least 500 feet from the fireworks provides the best view of the show.

- Watch for the quality and brightness of the colors. There should be no lag time in a professional show. There should always be something going on for you to enjoy.

- Resist the temptation to keep any leftover material you may find after a show.

Fireworks safety tips

- Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.

- Use outdoors only.

- Read and follow all warnings and instructions.

- Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

- Always wear eye protection.

- Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.

- Be careful around animals; the noise often frightens them.

- Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface.

- Never relight a "dud" firework.

- Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).

- Never experiment or make your own fireworks.

- Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing in a trash can.

- Avoid illegal explosives.

Safety information from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the National Council on Fireworks Safety.

[Last modified June 30, 2007, 23:35:02]