Smokey the Bear says by following these quick and simple steps, we can all keep our activities fun and fire-safe this summer.

• Read and follow all label instructions and warnings.
• Always have an adult present.
• Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks.
• Buy from reliable sellers.
• Use fireworks outdoors only and light them on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.
• Always have water handy; a garden hose and a bucket is best.
• Never take fireworks apart, mix their contents with anything else, or attempt to make your own fireworks.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Never re-light a "dud" firework. Wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
• Dispose of fireworks by soaking them in water and then putting them in your trash can.
• Never throw or point fireworks at other people. Be sure that people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket.
• Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.
• Always wear eye protection when lighting fireworks and never have any part of your body over the fireworks.
• Do not use illegal explosives.

Even sparklers, often considered safe, burn as hot as 1200 degrees Fahrenheit. Attending an outdoor public display put on by professionals is the safest way to enjoy fireworks.

Grilling
Keep grills far away from anything that can burn -- your home, cars, dry vegetation, etc. Supervise the grill when lighted, and keep children and pets well away from the area. If lightning appears, stop grilling, seek shelter and wait for the storm to pass. When barbecuing, protect yourself by wearing a heavy apron and an oven mitt that fits high up over your forearm. If you get burned, run cool water over the burn for 10 to 15 minutes. Never put butter or a salve on burns because these seal in heat and can damage the tissue further. If you receive a serious burn (with charred skin, for example) seek medical attention promptly. Barbecue grills must never be used inside the home. In addition to the fire hazard indoor grilling presents, it can easily cause carbon monoxide poisoning. New Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) regulations now requirement cautionary measures, hazards and consequences of indoor grilling on revised labels of all charcoal packaging sold in the U.S.

For charcoal grills, only use starter fluids designed for grills - NEVER USE GASOLINE. Use a limited amount of starter fluid before lighting the fire. If the fire is too slow, rekindle with dry kindling and add more charcoal if necessary, but NEVER ADD LIQUID FUEL to re-ignite or build up a fire, as flash fires can result. Soak the coals with water before you discard them.

For gas grills, always store the gas cylinder outside - away from structures - and turn off the valves when not in use. Check frequently for any leaks in connections by using a soap-and-water mix that will show bubbles where gas escapes. When purchasing a gas grill, select one that has been tested and bears the mark of an independent testing laboratory. Use the grill according to the manufacturer's instructions and if needed, have it repaired by a trained professional.