Safely enjoy fireworks this 4th of July with these tips

Celebrations call for color and camaraderie - and fireworks are often the go-to way to have both.

However, fireworks-related injuries are most common on and around holidays associated with fireworks celebrations, especially July 4 and New Year's Eve.

To help you and your loved ones stay safe and sound through the holiday celebrations, here are some tips from South Carolina Department of Public Health and Fire Safe South Carolina:

- Use fireworks outdoors only and always have water - be it a hose or buckets of water - handy.

- Only use fireworks as intended. Don't try to alter or combine them.

- Spectators and pets should keep a safe distance from the person lighting the fireworks, and the person lighting should wear safety glasses.

- Keep an eye on local weather conditions. Dry weather makes it easier for fireworks to start a fire.

- Don't hold fireworks in your hand or have any part of your body over them while lighting.

- Avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket - the friction could set them off.

- Point fireworks away from homes and keep away from brush, leaves and other flammable substances.

- Light one firework at a time.

- Never re-light a "dud" firework. Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.

- Have a designated person who is not drinking light the fireworks.

- Be careful when using sparklers, as they burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees. Only people over age 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type.

- Do not ever use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives - they can kill you. Report illegal explosives to the fire or police department in your community.

- Soak all fireworks in a bucket of water before throwing them in the trash can, as they may still be ignited.

For your furry friends, American Veterinary Medical Association shared that pet owners should:

- Leave pets at home when attending parties, fireworks displays, parades and other gatherings as loud fireworks, unfamiliar places and crowds can all be very frightening to pets. There's great risk of pets becoming spooked and running away.

- Consider putting pets in a safe, escape-proof room or crate during parties and fireworks.

- Keep pets inside if you or your neighbors are setting off fireworks.

- Keep sparklers, glow sticks, fireworks as well as charcoal and kabob skewers away from curious pets.

- Be courteous and inform neighbors with pets of your fireworks display.