Each year, 10,000 people are injured as a result of fireworks.
Read more: Local, Fireworks, Safety, Injuries, Illegal Fireworks, Firecrackers
BARAGA -- For many Americans, fireworks are a key ingredient in celebrating our nation's birthday. But unfortunately, the National Fire Protection Association estimates that 10,000 people are injured each year by fireworks.
So what should you do to stay safe?
"By reading the instructions. Everything we sell here has instructions on it and how to use it, and if you read the instructions, you're going to be safe," said Peter Morin, the owner of Morin Fireworks in Baraga.
The instructions vary slightly for each firework, but most include the same three things: don't hold them in your hand, use with adult supervision, and use outside only.
And some outdoor locations are better than others.
"It's better to be on like a paved surface or a gravel-type surface, non-combustible, where there's not a lot of tall grass around that could catch fire," said Paul Enrietti of the Marquette City Fire Department.
Experts also encourage users to wear eye protection, keep water nearby, and never try to relight fireworks that haven't functioned.
Something else to keep in mind is that most fireworks are illegal in the state of Michigan.
"Not legal fireworks include like firecrackers, bottle rockets. The rule of thumb for them is anything that makes a loud bang, spins around, or goes in the air is technically illegal," Enrietti said.
To ensure this year's Fourth of July ends safely, officials suggest that you leave the light show to the professionals.
