Health Tip: Fireworks Safety

(HealthDay News) -- Although fireworks are a traditional way to celebrate the July 4th holiday, they can also lead to serious injuries if proper precautions aren''t followed. If you decide to set off your own fireworks this holiday, here are a few safety tips, courtesy of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:

• Pay attention to the instructions and warnings.
• Be prepared with a bucket of water nearby in case of a malfunctioning firework.
• Be sure to set off the fireworks in an area clear of people.
• Fireworks should only be lit away from homes and other buildings, trees and cars. Never light fireworks in the grass, but always on a smooth, flat surface like concrete or pavement.
• If a firework does not ignite, do not attempt to re-light it.
• Never allow children to touch, handle or light fireworks.

-- Diana Kohnle

Last Updated: June 4, 2006