Follow these tips for a safe July 4

Planning your own fireworks show tonight? Follow these safety tips from the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department to avoid turning a fun holiday into a tragedy:

• When displaying legally purchased, approved fireworks, place them on a flat surface, clear of any combustible material and clear of all buildings.

• Keep all bystanders at least 25 feet away from fireworks.

• Follow the directions on the package.

• Do not permit young children to handle or light fireworks.

• Light only one firework at a time.

• Never throw fireworks.

• Sparklers account for the majority of injuries. Pieces can break off and burn bystanders.

• Young children should not use sparklers as they can get as hot as 1800 degrees.

• Never have any portion of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse.

• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.

Any firework that explodes, emits a flame or sparks higher than 12 feet, or performs as a projectile is prohibited by the Fairfax County Fire Prevention Code. Firecrackers, cherry bombs, and skyrockets are sold in other areas but are illegal in Northern Virginia. Anyone possessing unapproved fireworks can be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. This carries a maximum penalty of a $2,500 fine and/or one year in jail.