Santa Rosa County Emergency Management urges everyone to use caution and common sense when using fireworks over the Fourth of July weekend. Fireworks, while fun, can also be very dangerous. Residents are reminded that the only legal firework products allowed in the State of Florida should bear the wording "emits a fountain or shower of sparks." Aerial devices are prohibited. The State Fire Marshal's approved sparkler list can be found at http://www.myfloridacfo.com/SFM/pdf/Sparklers2010(2).pdf. According to Florida CFO Alex Sink, using illegal fireworks is a first-degree misdemeanor, and is a crime punishable by a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail.

The safest way to enjoy fireworks with your family is to participate in one of the public fireworks displays offered throughout Santa Rosa County.

Some things to consider:

•  Read all the cautions and warnings and use common sense.
•  Fireworks and alcohol do not mix. Have a designated "shooter."
•  Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
•  Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves and flammable materials
•  Do not allow young children to play with fireworks under any circumstances. Sparklers, considered by many the ideal "safe" firework for the young, burn at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing. Children cannot understand the danger involved and cannot act appropriately in case of emergency.
•  Use fireworks and sparklers only outdoors.
•  Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.
•  Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
•  Never attempt to relight fireworks that do not seem to work.
•  Have a water hose or bucket of water near-by.
•  Children under age sixteen should have adult supervision while using fireworks.
•  Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in a bucket of water before throwing away.

If someone is injured from fireworks, residents should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. If the injury is to the eye area, do not rub the eye and seek immediate medical attention. It could make a difference between saving a person's sight and permanent eye injury.