As thousands (and maybe even you) head to campgrounds for this Fourth of July, I wanted to give you a few tips to make sure that your Fourth of July doesn’t end up with a trip to the emergency room to get treated for third degree burns or to get a limb reattached.

I think we’ve all heard stories of people who’ve been horsing around with fireworks and have been seriously maimed by them. One thing to keep in mind is that fireworks aren’t perfectly safe even when used properly. Even professional displays have fireworks that blow up on the ground or when they’re not supposed to which is why the pros always wear fire suits.

So even if you’re not camping, and just want to celebrate with some fireworks, then here are some tips for using fireworks.

• Read and follow and instructions and warnings.
• Sorry kids, fireworks are for adults only. Sprinklers are okay for the young ones
• Fireworks don’t belong in the woods, and in dry areas can ignite forest fires – better to go see a professional display in the area than use them in a wooded campsite.
• Only light fireworks on smooth, flat surfaces away from houses, leaves, and flammable materials.
• Be prepared. Keep a bucket of water handy and a first aid kid just in case.
• If you have a dud, never try to relight it. Douse it with water or bury it with dirt to prevent it from going off unexpectedly and dispose of it later.
• Fireworks are for outdoor use only
• Never throw fireworks or handle fireworks after they’ve been lit (I have a friend who got third degree burns all over his arm when the fuse burned faster than expected and went off in his hand.)
• Follow all local laws and ordinances regarding fireworks
• Only light one at a time.
• Be cautious during windy conditions. Be sure that no spectators are downwind of your display.
• Wear safety glasses if you’re lighting the fireworks or if you’re going to be in close proximity to the display.