Stay safe on 4th of July

AUSTIN (KXAN) - When used correctly, fireworks can lead to a safe and fun filled holiday, but the HCFCA would also like to remind citizens of the dangers that come with their use.

The following safety guidelines are recommended while using fireworks this weekend:

1. DO NOT LET CHILDREN HANDLE FIREWORKS. Never let children handle, play or light any fireworks. Only adults should use fireworks. Fireworks are great family fun, but they burn very hot and are intended to be handled only by adults.

2. DO NOT CONSUME ALCOHOL WITH FIREWORKS
Please do not consume any alcohol while lighting or handling fireworks. Fireworks must be used only by individuals who act in a responsible manner and who are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are impaired in any way when you use fireworks, you increase the possibilities of misuse and injury to yourself and others.

3. FOLLOW ALL LOCAL LAWS
Follow your local and state laws regarding the possession and use of fireworks, and use good common sense when using fireworks. Fireworks are illegal within the city limits of most municipalities. Read all directions, cautions, labels, and warnings on each individual firework item to understand the product performance and hazards associated with it.

4. ONLY USE FIREWORKS IN CLEAR OPEN AREAS
Always keep the audience (and particularly children) a safe distance away from the shooting site. Always light your fireworks in a clear open area away from buildings, vehicles, and shrubbery. A minimum clear radius of 30 feet for fountains and other ground based items and 100 yards for any aerial product is recommended. You should avoid lighting the fireworks in any area where there is dry grass or brush that could catch fire or near any flammable items.

5. STAY CLEAR OF FIREWORKS
Never put your head or any part of your body over the top of any firework. Never look into a tube to check on the firework. Never hold a lighted firework item in your hand. Keep as far from the firework as possible when lighting.

6. NEVER TRY TO RE- LIGHT A "DUD"
Never attempt to re-light, alter, or fix any "dud" firework item. If a firework item fails to ignite, never attempt to re light the firework. If a firework item fails to ignite, let it stand for at least five minutes, then immerse it in water. Dispose of the firework properly.

7. HAVE WATER READY
Have an accessible fire extinguisher, water supply, hose, or bucket of water nearby for emergencies to extinguish any fires that start.

8. DO NOT USE DURING WINDY CONDITIONS
Be cautious of lighting any fireworks during strong winds. Fireworks should be lit with the prevailing wind blowing away from the spectators. If the wind is blowing please refrain from using fireworks.

9. NEVER POINT A FIREWORK TOWARDS SOMEONE
Never aim, point, or throw any fireworks at another person or at any property. Fireworks can cause serious injury or death.

10. STORAGE AND USE
Always store fireworks in a cool, dry place and dispose of fireworks properly. Never use fireworks indoors; only use them outdoors under safe conditions. Safety glasses are recommended for those individuals lighting the fireworks and those individuals in close proximity to the fireworks.

11. REMEMBER THE PETS
Noise and lights of the fireworks often frighten some animals, so it is very important that you are careful with pets. You may want to consider moving the animals away or keeping them inside during any fireworks use. Please be considerate of your pets and animals when using fireworks.

The Hays County Fire Departments will also be bringing in additional resources and staff to be able to respond to any and all emergencies.

With the current drought conditions, the Hays County Fire Departments are staffing up and bringing in additional resources to be able to respond to any and all emergencies. However, we request that area citizens consider their surroundings while using fireworks and are encouraged to use these common guidelines to prevent any fires, injuries or property loss.

Remember to stay aware of your surroundings while using fireworks, especially in these dry conditions.

Have a safe and happy 4th of July holiday!