“The start of summer is the perfect time to gather with family and friends for good food and fun times. This year, celebrate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence safely. Our July 4th safety tips cover a few key summer safety topics to help keep you and your family safe this Independence Day.

Fireworks cause over 19,000 fires every year. Take the proper precautions when operating fireworks.

• Never disassemble or try to make your own fireworks.
• Don’t point sparklers, or fireworks at yourself or others, especially when lighting them.
• Only light fireworks on the ground and in areas that are dry and fire-resistant.
• Don’t attempt to ignite fireworks at the same time.
• Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers to prevent firework-related injuries.
• Always keep a portable fire extinguisher close by. Also, keep a water hose or buckets of water nearby to put out fires.
• If fireworks malfunction, don’t relight them! Douse and soak malfunctioning fireworks with water then throw them away.
• Resist the urge to bring your dog to a fireworks display. The safest place for them is at home where it’s familiar, quiet and not crowded.

Never allow young children to handle fireworks or sparklers to prevent firework-related injuries. Sparklers are hot enough to cause severe burns if mishandled.”

ADT (https://www.adt.com/resources/4th-of-july-safety-tips)