Fireworks Safety Tips from Hays County Fire Marshal Clint Browning

• Buy from reputable fireworks vendors; never try to make your own fireworks.

• Read and follow label directions, warnings, and safety instructions.

• Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities. Keep children and pets away.

• Young children can suffer injuries from sparklers, which burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.

• Never place any part of your body over the fireworks when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance after the fuse is lit.

• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited.

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person, an animal, or a vehicle.

• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of fire.

• Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly. Never twist fuses together to set off more than one at a time.

• Never carry fireworks in your pockets or set them off in a metal or glass container.

• After fireworks have finished burning, douse them with water from a container or garden hose to avoid a trash fire.

• Eye and hearing protection is strongly recommended.

• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.

• Fireworks are not allowed in Hays County parks. The sale or possession of fireworks are banned in most incorporated cities in Hays County.

• If you live in an area where fireworks are used, make sure your pets have identification or keep them indoors. Be extra watchful for persons near roadways who might be setting off fireworks after dark.