Summer is synonymous with barbecues, parades and fireworks. In 2017, eight people died and over 12,000 were injured badly enough to require medical treatment after fireworks-related incidents. Of these, 50% of the injuries were to children and young adults under age 20. Over two-thirds (67%) of injuries took place from June 16 to July 16. And while the majority of these incidents were due to amateurs attempting to use professional-grade, homemade or other illegal fireworks or explosives, an estimated 1,200 injuries were from less powerful devices like small firecrackers and sparklers. Sparklers burn at about 2,000 degrees – hot enough to melt some metals.

Leave fireworks to the professionals. Grab a blanket and a patch of lawn, kick back and let the experts handle the fireworks show!

As always, be aware of your surroundings. If you see something that just isn't right, say something.