Before lighting off any fireworks, legal or otherwise, this holiday weekend, keep in mind the following tips provided by Herb Truhe of International Fireworks:

• Refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages while using fireworks.• Smoking should be prohibited around fireworks, as cigarettes can easily ignite fuses.• Only use professionally-manufactured fireworks. Never attempt to alter fireworks in any way.• Adults should always be present when fireworks are being used. Never let children handle, play with, or light fireworks.• Use fireworks on flat and level surfaces. Be sure to point fireworks away from homes or wooded areas. Compensate for strong winds.• Never light fireworks in dry, flammable areas. Never shoot fireworks out of glass or metal containers.• Always use a punk, road flare, or elongated lighting device to ignite fuses. After lighting, quickly retreat to a safe distance.• Never put any part of your body directly above a firework or look into a launch tube.• Never hold a firework in your hand while lighting. Fuses are unpredictable and can burn extremely quickly. Place the firework on the ground before lighting.• Keep a fire extinguisher or water supply on hand. Place spent fireworks in a bucket of water.• Never try to light "duds." Soak them in water and then dispose of them properly.• Between 9:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. is the best time to use fireworks. Always notify your neighbors of your planned usage ahead of time.• Fireworks can easily scare animals, both domesticated and wild. Be considerate when using them.• When you are finished with your display, clear the area of any debris or "duds."• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place, preferably away from your home. Always dispose of used fireworks properly.• Never use fireworks indoors.