How many of you have ever heard the phrase “Hey y’all watch this!”

In my family this phrase is usually followed by someone falling off a roof, face planting on a wakeboard or wrecking a go-cart into a ditch. This time of year that phrase may be more commonly associated with fireworks. I’m sure most of us have family members who have attempted their own firework displays only to have them end in disappointment, fire, or injury.

This year with the fact that we’ve had little rain and everything has turned to kindle maybe we should rethink our private fireworks displays. Some counties including, Marion, have actually banned private fireworks displays encouraging everyone instead to attend the public displays in their communities.

I’m sure most of you are probably thinking that the personal fireworks bans just apply to the really large aerial fireworks. That’s not the case, I also mean sparklers. Who doesn’t love sparklers? They make the Fourth fun and exciting and they’re so pretty and harmless! Wrong. Sparklers can reach 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. If you want to know how hot that it is, it’s hot enough to melt gold. So if you are going to be playing with sparklers remember to keep them away from your face, clothing and hair. If you want an interesting way to keep your hands free from getting burnt check out this blog that suggests using a plastic cup (everyone has an abundant supply of those on the Fourth).

For those of you that don’t have county fireworks bans here are some things to consider:

• When using fireworks make sure that you keep a hose and bucket of water nearby in case you accidentally light your grass or a nearby tree on fire (Dad, this is for you, firecrackers and trees do not mix).

• Make sure that no one else is around you when lighting fireworks and don’t throw them or point them at other people! It’s not funny no matter how much you think so.

• Don’t try to light more than one firecracker at a time. You may think you’re a great multitasker but believe me, you’re not.

• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. That's all I'm going to say on that subject.

• After your fireworks show douse all the remnants of the fireworks with water before throwing them in a trash can.

• It would also probably be a good idea to remember that if you’re setting off fireworks on your property and the embers or sparks catch your neighbor’s house on fire you will be responsible. And just so you know there are fines involved when that happens (up to $2,500).

• If you are a spectator, make sure to stay a safe distance away from wherever they are igniting the fireworks. The last thing you want is for something to happen and a firework to go astray and hurt you. Don’t believe me? It can happen.

• If someone you know becomes injured. Go to the hospital or see a doctor immediately. If someone gets burned, run the burn under cool (not cold) water. Do not use ice. Then cover the burn loosely with a sterile dressing, do not put any ointments on the burn.

When it comes to the Fourth, leave the fireworks to the professionals. The risks involved with personal firework shows are too high. The most important thing to remember when it comes to fireworks is to use common sense. Remember that “Hey y’all watch this” may be the last thing you want to hear. If you think something is a bad idea, it probably is.

Make sure to contact your local fire department or law enforcement agency for information regarding your county’s stance on fireworks for the Fourth. Celebrate responsibly! Happy Fourth of July!