Be happy, safe and healthy this Fourth of July!

Independence Day may look a bit different this year. Many cities have canceled their annual fireworks shows or parades, and families may have put off barbecues and picnics.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun at home or while practicing social distancing outdoors. And that means some of you may be planning to put on a fireworks show of your own. If that’s the case, here are some tips from Brad Uren, M.D., to make sure you keep yourself and your loved ones safe this holiday weekend:

Be sure to buy fireworks from a reputable source

Don’t buy fireworks that aren’t clearly labeled and packaged. Fireworks should have clear safety instructions on them. Buying from a reputable source can also decrease your chances of purchasing fireworks that have been tampered with or altered.

Keep your lighting area clear

Make sure spectators are a safe distance away from the spot you intend to light the fireworks. It’s also smart to check the area for anything flammable that may be easily ignited by a stray spark.

Follow the instructions

Each firework has certain lighting requirements. Reading the instructions can minimize your chances of starting a fire or injuring yourself.

Have a way to put out small fires or duds

It’s a good idea to keep a fire extinguisher and bucket of water nearby should one of your fireworks create a small fire or simply not light properly.

Never relight a malfunctioning firework

Consider that firework a loss! Your safety and life are not worth trying to relight a firework that may not be functioning properly and could self-combust.

Don’t look into a dud

If a firework doesn’t ignite or shoot off properly, don’t mess with it. Many people are injured when looking into a firework to see what’s wrong and then it happens to explode. Leave the dud alone, and at the end of the night safely spray it with water from a distance to make sure any stray flames are suppressed.

Remember: Sparklers are not a safer choice

Parents tend to think sparklers are a fun and safer way for children to enjoy the holiday, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Sparklers are essentially an open flame and burn at an extremely high temperature. Add in young children running around with one in their hand and the possibility of injuries skyrockets.

Headlines will be taking a hiatus tomorrow, July 3, and return on Monday, July 6. From the entire Headlines team, have a happy and healthy Fourth of July!