Leave Fireworks to Pros

Newswise — Holiday fireworks are best left to the professionals, says Katherine Terry, MPH, of UAB's Injury Control Research Center. "Fireworks are potentially very dangerous, especially for children. Even sparklers can reach temperatures of more than 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit." But if you can't resist lighting fireworks off in the back yard, Terry advises some simple rules. Always have children supervised by a responsible adult. Keep water on hand. Never re-light duds. Avoid poorly labeled fireworks, as they may be illegally made and especially dangerous. And follow all manufacturer's warnings and instructions.