Fireworks safety

This is a big holiday week. It's the 4th of July! A time when families get together to celebrate. And, this is one of those holidays that often includes fireworks. It's a fun tradition, but it can also be very dangerous.

Hospital emergency rooms see lots of people on the 4th of July with fireworks-related injuries. We're talking about injuries to fingers and hands, legs, faces and even eyes. That's pretty scary when you think about children. The thing is, fireworks are explosives. Mobile Fire-Rescue's Steve Huffman explains, "kids are probably the last people that need to be shooting off fireworks. And, those are the ones that normally get injured as a result of that." In fact, hospitals report the risk of fireworks related injuries is two and a half times higher for kids than adults.

So, if you are going to shoot fireworks this 4th of July, here are some things to think about:

• Always read and follow the directions on the fireworks.
• Never let children shoot -- or play with -- fireworks without an adult present.
• Make sure you buy your fireworks from a reliable seller. Anyone selling fireworks should have a permit from the State Fire Marshall's office. Using unreliable fireworks can really be dangerous.
• Use the fireworks outside, and keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby.
• If you have a firework that doesn't work right away, don't relight it. Wait about 15 or 20 minutes and then soak it in some water. You don't want it to go off when you're not ready or expecting it.
• Even sparklers can be dangerous for children. Huffman says sparklers burn at a temperature of between 1,200 and 2,000 degrees. That's really hot, and that can really burn little hands or faces.
• And, remember, inside the city limits of Mobile and many other municipalities, shooting off fireworks is illegal.

Huffman says the safest way to enjoy a fireworks show with your kids, is to go watch the professionals put one on. There are lots of those this year all around the Gulf Coast. Click here to take a look.

And, for some other fireworks safety ideas, click here .

We hope you have a happy - and safe - 4th of July!