National fireworks group offers tips for safe New Year’s celebrations

For centuries, fireworks, with their dazzling displays of light and color, have been used to ring in the New Year and welcome the thrilling possibilities it brings.

To keep your celebration safe, the American Pyrotechnics Association recommends the following safety guidelines:

Always check with your local city and county governments as there may be certain areas where consumer fireworks are not permitted Only buy legal fireworks from a licensed seller. Read and follow the directions on the labels. Never give fireworks or sparklers to young children. Never use fireworks in conjunction with alcohol consumption. Only use consumer fireworks away from homes, buildings and dry grass — on a flat, level, hard, fireproof surface, such as concrete, that is free from debris. Have a working garden hose and/ or bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies. Never carry a firework in your pocket or hold a lit firework in your hand. Never shoot fireworks from a metal or glass container. Keep spectators at a safe distance. Always wear safety glasses when igniting fireworks. Don’t aim or throw fireworks at another person. Never place any part of your body directly over a firework device — even when lighting the device. Light only one firework at a time. Never approach or try to re-ignite a firework that doesn’t light the first time.

When finished, allow used fireworks to stand for at least 20 minutes, submerge in water, drain, place in a plastic bag and dispose outside in a covered trash can.

Protect your pets. Animals are often frightened by the sounds of fireworks. Protect your “best friends” by keeping them indoors, secure and away from the loud, sudden noises.