Firework safety tips Published June 30, 2015 By Master Sgt. Juan Valle 27th Special Operations Civil Engineer Squadron CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- Fireworks and celebrations go together during the Fourth of July, however, fireworks can turn a joyful event into a painful memory when children and adults are injured because of carelessness or lack of proper safety measures. The Cannon fire department wants Air Commandos and their families to have an enjoyable and safe holiday, and to remind everyone that fireworks and their use is prohibited on base. For those who live in the local community and elect to use fireworks, here are some helpful tips to follow for a safe Fourth of July: -Do not allow young children to play with fireworks under any circumstances. Sparklers are considered by many the ideal "safe" firework for youth, but they still burn at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing and cause severe burns. -Older children should only be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision. -Use 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 do not ignite. -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 one made of glass or metal. -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 it. -Observe local laws and follow licensed vendor recommendations. New Mexico laws allow for the sale of a variety of consumer fireworks. With this said, only purchase fireworks from New Mexico vendors with appropriate licenses or permits. Use only permitted ground fireworks, which include sparklers, snakes, airplanes, ground spinners, helicopters, fountains and party poppers. Local community prohibited fireworks include large aerial and reloadable mortar shells, cherry bombs, aerial bombs and M-80 salutes. Also banned are mail-order kits designed to build these fireworks. By following these simple tips, Air Commandos can reduce injuries and ensure that this Fourth of July is a safe and enjoyable one. If members have any additional questions, please contact the Cannon fire prevention office at 575-784-4077; for local area fireworks restrictions contact the Clovis fire department at 575-769-7814 or Portales fire department at 575-356-4406.