Leave the fireworks to the pros Published June 25, 2010 CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Fireworks and celebrations go together, especially during the Fourth of July. However, fireworks can turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory when children and adults are injured while using fireworks. The base fire department wants you to have an enjoyable and safe holiday. Here are some helpful tips to follow. · The individual use of fireworks on Cannon, including Military Family Housing, is prohibited · Do not allow young children to play with fireworks under any circumstances. Sparklers, considered by many the ideal "safe" firework for the young, burn at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing. Children cannot determine the danger involved and cannot act appropriately in case of emergency. · Older children should only be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision. Do not allow any running or horseplay. · Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from houses, dry leaves or grass and flammable materials. · Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on fireworks that don't go off. · Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Douse and soak them with water and throw them away. · Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks. · Never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container. · Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas. · Store fireworks in a dry, cool place. Check instructions for special storage directions. · Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting · Observe local laws. New Mexico laws allows for the sale of all or some or all types of consumer fireworks. Consumer fireworks include shells and mortars, multiple tube devices, Roman Candles, rockets, sparklers, firecrackers with no more than 50 milligrams of powder and novelty items such as snakes, airplanes, ground spinners, helicopters, fountains, and party poppers. Banned fireworks include large reloadable mortar shells, cherry bombs, aerial bombs, M-80 salutes and larger firecrackers containing more than two grains of powder. Also banned are mail-order kits designed to build these fireworks By following these simple tips you can reduce injuries and insure that your Fourth of July is a safe and enjoyable one. If you have any further questions please contact the Cannon AFB Fire Prevention office at 784-4490.