As Iowans, and all Americans celebrate Independence Day today, they are reminded to be safe should those celebrations involve fireworks.

While many area towns like Washington and Kalona have ordinances in place prohibiting fireworks within city limits, their increased availability this time of year has led to thousands of injuries and even some deaths in the past. Last year, 11 deaths were reported while 10,200 people were treated in emergency rooms for fireworks injuries according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

While sparklers may seem like a harmless alternative, they burn at approximately 2,000 degrees and can quickly ignite clothing. For children under five years of age, sparklers account for nearly half of the total estimated injuries. Additionally, fireworks start more than 19,000 fires every year.

Anyone lighting their own fireworks today is reminded to never let children play with or ignite them, keep a bucket of water or garden hose readily available, and never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully ignited. For more firework safety tips, visit cpsc.gov/fireworks.