The Cooper County Fire Protection District provided safety tips as residents celebrate the Fourth of July. From fireworks to overindulgence and reckless driving there are many factors putting you at risk this Fourth of July holiday.

Only use fireworks as directed. They are dangerous and play a large role in injuries that occur each Fourth of July season, with 68 percent of fireworks injuries taking place within a month of July. Most fireworks-related injuries were associated with misuse or malfunction of fireworks.
-Know which fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
-Never use professional-grade fireworks.
-Keep a bucket of water or garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishaps.
-Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
-Never try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
-Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
-Never point or throw fireworks (including sparklers) at anyone.
-Supervise children when they are handling sparklers.
-Consider safe alternatives to fireworks, such as party poppers, bubbles, silly string, or glow sticks.
-Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding

Keep an eye on children. Supervise children using fireworks. In 2016, emergency departments treated an estimated 900 injuries associated with sparklers, according to CPSC.

Travel safely. With the added traffic and anticipation, roads can become dangerous. Added vehicles on roads contributes to higher accidents. Always be sure children are in the back seat, safely strapped into seatbelts. Be aware of drivers around you and always have a plan to get home safely.

Don’t overindulge. Americans drink more on July fourth than any other holiday. In 2016, beer sales reached over $1 billion on July fourth. Mixing alcohol with many July fourth activities, such as swimming and fireworks, can be very dangerous. Monitor your alcohol intake and never drink and drive.