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Fireworks and celebrations go together, especially during the Fourth of July. But fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries. The Paul Silverstein Burn Center at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center receives patients every year from personal fireworks accidents.

That’s why our physicians recommend attending professional displays instead. Here’s a special message from Christopher Lentz, M.D., the medical director of the Paul Silverstein Burn Center.

But if fireworks are legal where you live, and you decide to set them off on your own, we urge that you follow these important safety tips:

• Never give fireworks to small children.
• Only persons over the age of 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers with adult supervision.
• The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.
• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Have a designated adult shooter.
• The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the firework.
• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Use common sense. Spectators should keep a safe distance.
• Read and follow all warnings and instructions.
• Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter them or combine them.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
• Do not light fireworks with a lighter. Use a longer, slower-burning ???
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Never relight a "dud" firework.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Keep a bucket of water in case of a malfunction or fire.
• Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trashcan.

If you or someone you know suffers a fireworks injury to the eye go to nearest emergency room for immediate evaluation.