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July 4 is synonymous with summer barbecues, kayaking and fireworks.
It's a time for families to get together, be care free and enjoy the outdoors.
But, there's a difference between being carefree and careless.
While much of the Juniata River Valley will come out with family and friends to see fireworks in Lewistown or Milroy, we know some of you like to build your own displays.
We remind everyone to exercise caution when handling fireworks.
June is Fireworks Safety Month -- a time for agencies like the Consumer Product Safety Commission to reiterate measures that should be taken when fireworks are set off.
According to The Commission, 9,700 people were treated in emergency rooms in 2023 with fireworks injuries, with 42 percent of those injuries being burns.
And it's no wonder -- even sparklers are said to burn at about 2,000 degrees -- hot enough to cause severe burns and account for about a quarter of all emergency room visits for fireworks injuries.
Some general safety reminders:
Fireworks should always be used outdoors. Be sure to keep a bucket of water or hose nearby in case of accidents.
Designate a safe perimeter to keep people safely away from fireworks and light only one at a time.
Never put a part of your body directly over a firework or hold them in your hand while lighting.
Never allow young children to handle fireworks. Older kids should only use fireworks under close adult supervision.
Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
Soak both spent and unused fireworks in water for a few hours before discarding.
Fireworks aren't the only way people get injured on and around Independence Day.
PennDOT reminds motorists to not drive impaired.
Last year alone, Pennsylvania had 38 alcohol-related crashes from 6 a.m. July 4 to 6 a.m. July 5, resulting in two fatalities and 23 injuries.
During the same time, there were 10 drug-related crashes, resulting in one fatality and eight injuries.
In general, practicing common sense is the best safeguard against potential disaster.