The Fourth of July is for fun, family, friends and fireworks! But did you know that thousands of firework-related injuries are treated in the emergency room every year? Consider these facts and tips to prevent injuries during your July Fourth celebration.

Grab a blanket and a patch of lawn and enjoy fireworks at public displays conducted by professionals.

Did you know?

• Burns are the most common firework-related injury.
• Most injuries are caused by firecrackers, sparklers and bottle rockets.
• The most frequently injured body parts are the hands, head/neck and eyes.

If consumer fireworks are legal to buy where you live, follow these safety tips:

• Never allow young children to handle fireworks.
• Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
• Never hold lighted fireworks in your hands.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never ignite devices in a container.
• Never try to re-light or handle malfunctioning fireworks.
• Wear protective eyewear when handling fireworks.
• Always have a water supply nearby in case of a fire or mishap.

Beware of sparklers:

• They burn at about 2,000 degrees.
• They can quickly ignite clothing.
• Sparklers alone account for more than 25% of emergency room visits for firework injuries.