KALAMAZOO  (WKZO) --    Kalamazoo Public Safety knows they can’t be everywhere and remember in Kalamazoo that the same group that is responsible for enforcing the laws are responsible tonight for putting out fires so they are going to be stretched thin.  Captain Robert Zuniga says the state law does permit them to ban use of fireworks on public and school properties, and they can also make arrests if you are drunk and lighting fireworks.

• Parents and caretakers should always closely supervise teens if they are using fireworks.

• Parents should not allow young children to handle or use fireworks.

• Fireworks should only be used outdoors.

• Always have water ready if you are shooting fireworks.

• Know your fireworks. Read the caution label before igniting. Do not light fireworks

near flammable liquids, buildings and vehicles..

• Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.

• Wear safety glasses whenever using fireworks.

• Never relight a “dud” firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

• Soak spent fireworks with water before placing them in an outdoor garbage can.

• Avoid using homemade fireworks or illegal explosives: They can kill you!

• Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department

The use of sparklers is common with children of all ages; however, they burn at over

1200 degrees. Parents are encouraged to follow following sparkler safety tips:

• Always remain standing while using sparklers.

• Never hold a child in your arms while using sparklers.

• Never hold, or light, more than one sparkler at a time.

• Never throw sparklers.

• Sparkler wire and stick remain hot long after the flame has gone out. Be sure to drop

spent sparklers in a bucket of water.

• Teach children not to wave sparklers, or run, while holding sparklers.