ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - As families prepare to celebrate Independence Day, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is reminding the public that sparklers and fireworks can cause serious injuries if not used properly.

While many people consider sparklers to be a safer alternative to fireworks, the agency warns they can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit—hot enough to melt some metals and cause severe burns within seconds. Fire officials also stress that sparklers can reach temperatures well above 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, making them especially dangerous for children.

Safety officials recommend that adults handle sparklers and keep children away from all fireworks.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission also offers these safety tips:

• Buy only legal consumer fireworks from reputable retailers.
• Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of fire or to safely soak used fireworks.
• Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
• Light one firework at a time and move away quickly after lighting the fuse.
• Never aim or throw fireworks at people, animals or buildings.
• Never hold, wear or attach fireworks to your body or clothing.
• Never relight a firework that fails to ignite. Wait at least 20 minutes before soaking it thoroughly in water and disposing of it.

Fire officials also encourage families to have a bucket of water nearby whenever using sparklers or fireworks in case of an emergency.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says the safest way to celebrate Independence Day is to leave fireworks to the professionals and attend a public fireworks display in your community.

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