Heading into the week of Independence Day celebrations, the Valley Regional Fire Authority has already responded to two serious fireworks-related injuries and is urging caution.

Safety and responsibility should be practiced around all fireworks. Consider attending a public display as a safe alternative. Go to www.wsp.wa.gov/fire for a list of fireworks displays and celebrations.

If fireworks are used, the following tips will help prevent injuries and fires:

• Know and follow the fireworks laws in the area you will be discharging them. Go to www.vrfa.org for Algona, Auburn and Pacific regulations.

• Read and follow all fireworks instructions and safety recommendations.

• Maintain adult supervision and keep all fireworks out of the hands of children. Consider that Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.

• Trim any tall grass close to buildings or fences, clean all gutters and move burnable items away from homes.

• Use fireworks in an area clear of materials that can burn, and away from buildings. The area should be sufficiently wet down.

• Keep garden hoses ready, and a bucket of water to place used fireworks in before disposal.

• Light one item at a time and move away quickly.

• Maintain a safe distance from fireworks display area.

• Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse.

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.

• Do not approach or try to re-light "duds." Wait several minutes before disposing in a bucket of water.

Please direct any questions to the Valley Regional Fire Authority Public Education Division at 253-288-5800.

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