Fourth of July holiday prompts talk of firework safety

AUSTIN, Texas - The Fourth of July is Thursday and odds are you'll head to a fireworks show or set off some of your own. Now is the time to be thinking about firework safety.

"I think it's all about the American tradition," said Chester Davis who owns American Fireworks. 

He's been in the business for more than 50 years. 

"I think while we have a great tradition American tradition, and we have the ability to celebrate Independence Day," said Davis. 

Every year before the big holiday Davis urges people to be aware of their local laws.

He says it's important to keep in mind that fireworks are illegal to have or use within Austin city limits and several other Central Texas cities

"Proper information is in each box the labeling is correct the testing is correct and we warn people not to misuse fireworks," said Davis.  

According the National Fire Protection Association in 2017, fireworks caused more than 15,000 reported fires in the U.S., including more than 1,500 structure fires and 200 vehicle fires.

"We take it personally when someone is injured or harmed," said Davis.  

Davis suggests the following safety tips to keep your Fourth injury-free: get a designated shooter, wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks, have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby, read all instructions and warnings on your fireworks, and only light one item at a time.

"Have fun and be safe take home some memories you can do that if you get yourself a designated shooter," said Davis. “Get back a little bite and watch the show and have a grand time.”