Keep Your Fourth Fun With These Fireworks Safety Tips

(WDAZ-TV) - As the Fourth of July holiday approaches, it's important to remember some safety tips when it comes to fireworks to ensure you and your friends and family stay safe.

· Use fireworks outdoors only.

· Always have water handy (a hose or bucket).

· Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.

· Never relight a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

· Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.

· Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a "designated shooter."

· Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.

· Never use homemade fireworks of illegal explosives: They can kill you!

· Report the use of illegal fireworks to the Police Department or Sheriff’s Office.

· Do not light fireworks in city limits.

Tips provided by Beltrami County Sheriff Phil Hodapp

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