In 2012 there were approximately 8,700 injuries from fireworks and in 2013 the number increased to 11,400.  As Americans celebrate the 4th of July we need to be sure to use caution and handle fireworks correctly.  The best way to protect yourself is to attend public firework displays and leave the lighting to the professionals. You should also be aware of the type of fireworks that are legal in your state, Maryland has different rules for different counties within the state. Some tips for safety are:

• Do not wear loose clothing while using fireworks
  
• Stand several feet away from lit fireworks
• Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass
• Point fireworks away from homes, and keep away from brush, leaves and flammable substances
• If a device does not go off, do not stand over it to investigate it. Put it out with water and dispose of it
• Always have a bucket of water and/or a fire extinguisher nearby

for more tips and Maryland Laws go to https://www.mdsp.org/Organization/StateFireMarshal/ExplosivesandFireworks.aspx