Be safe when shooting fireworks

To the editor:

Phantom Fireworks hopes everyone enjoys a wonderful family Independence Day holiday, and, if you use consumer fireworks, please use them safely.  There is no good consumer fireworks experience if it does not emphasize safety first.

Phantom advises everyone to follow the safety rules, obey the fireworks laws where you are using them and have the products used by a sober adult who conforms to the rules.

Phantom asks anyone using consumer fireworks to familiarize themselves with the fireworks use rules posted in the Fireworks University section of http://www.fireworks.com.

The primary rule is that a designated adult should handle, control and set off the fireworks.  The designated shooter must refrain from using alcohol until after the fireworks show.

There should be an adequate water supply in case of emergencies.  A connected hose is best, but a fire extinguisher or even a bucket of water will do.

The audience should be a safe distance away from the launch site.  Phantom advises a minimum of 35 feet from any ground-based product and 150 feet from any aerial product.

Use only one firework item at a time.

Never try to relight a product that does not work the first time.

Never place any part of your body over a firework item.

Soak spent fireworks in water overnight, then dispose of them in a nonflammable container away from the house and outside of any structure.

Enjoy the Fourth of July holiday with your family, and do so safely.  Thank you.

William A. Weimer

Vice president

Phantom Fireworks