I’m sure you’ve heard the sounds of the season. Those pops and bangs going off in the distance are a reminder that the 4th of July celebration is right around the corner. Perhaps you’ve already visited a fireworks stand and are participating in the festivities early.

While we love to see the sights and hear the sounds of fireworks, we must remember that this is also one of the most dangerous of holidays. More fires are reported across the United States in the days surrounding the 4th of July than any other time of year. In 2011, more than 17,000 fires were reported as being caused by fireworks, including structure and vehicle fires, as well as fires started outdoors.

Even the smallest of fireworks, such as sparklers, can pose a physical danger if used improperly.  According to the Division of Fire Safety, about 40 percent of fireworks injuries that require a trip to the hospital affect children under the age of 15.

The best and safest choice, of course, is to attend one of the many fireworks displays held all across our state. Almost every community has an Independence Day celebration, with trained staff on hand to set off the fireworks as well as watch for misfires and/or other issues.

If you simply must conduct your own Independence Day fireworks display, please take extra precautions and follow basic safety protocols.

Keep young children away from fireworks and closely supervise them during the festivities. Have a water hose or plenty of water on hand to be ready for any situation. Tie long hair back before lighting any firework, and above all, never point any firework at another person or animal.

It is my hope that you and your family will have a very happy and safe celebration of our nation’s independence, and that the holiday will stand to remind us all of why we are, and continue to be, a free people in a free land.

Always feel free to contact me throughout the year with any comments, questions, or issues by calling my office at (573) 751-5713 or by visiting my website at www.senate.mo.gov/brown.

Thank you for reading this and for your participation in state government.