CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Health experts say the best way to be safe this Fourth of July is to leave the fireworks to the professionals -- or just be prepared if you plan to use them yourself.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, the Fourth of July is a holiday where it’s imperative to plan ahead to prevent injury and damage to property.
First, choose an open area outside to light your fireworks, away from anything that can easily catch fire.
Light them off one at a time, and don't stand directly over them when you do. You should never try to re-light a firework that doesn’t go off.
Dr. Allan Capin with Cleveland Clinic also said adults should handle the fireworks.
"Figure out who’s lighting up the fireworks, first of all," Capin said. "One of the things we recommend is for children not to be involved."
When it comes to injuries, Capin said to avoid putting ice on a burn. If you get a minor burn, run it under cool water instead.
“It's not a good idea to use ice on a burn," he said. "Ice is the enemy, in this case, because the minute you apply ice, you're decreasing blood flow to the area, which can cause more pain and worsen the severity of the burn."
If the burn is severe and blistering, though, seek medical care right away.
Contact Destiny Richards at drichards5@wcnc.com and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.