With Fourth of July coming up, fireworks season is here.

Black cats, roman candles, sparklers, bottle rockets – you name it – someone will light the fuse.

It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 11,400 people for fireworks-related injuries in 2013. Injury was highest for children, age 0-4, followed by children, 10-14.

“In 2007-2011, four people per year were killed in fires started by fireworks, while data from death certificates show that five people per year were killed directly by fireworks,” according to the NFPA website.

The list of risks associated with fireworks usage is not a short one.

To keep adults and children safe from injury or fatality, extreme safety precaution should be taken when using fireworks.

Remember the following as you and your family celebrate this Independence Day:

• Avoid using them when possible. Go see a professional show.
• Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks.
• If you must use them, read all caution and warning labels. Carefully follow the directions.
• Never let children use fireworks.
• Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and vehicles.
• As Total Safety always recommends, use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as safety goggles, hearing protection, and gloves.

For more information on the safety of fireworks, you can visit www.NFPA.org