For most, the Fourth of July just would not be the same without fireworks lighting up the night sky to celebrate the nation’s independence.

For those across the U.S. gearing to set off their own fireworks, local authorities offered a few simple safety guidelines that could help to reduce the chance of injury or property damage, and ensure the fun continues throughout the holiday.

On average, 250 people end up in the hospital emergency room, due to firework-related injuries every day the month before the holiday, according to a study conducted by the Consumer Safety Commission.

When it comes to purchasing fireworks, Niles Township Fire Chief Gary Brovold advised that residents only buy from local firework stands, where the products will be compliant with the state’s laws.

Fireworks wrapped in brown paper and purchased from other sources could require professional operation.

Brovold also said those setting off fireworks should first read the labeling to gauge the safest distance for spectators to watch from.

The person setting off the fireworks should also make sure that the firework is not pointed towards an audience.

“If you are going to shoot [a firework] into the air, make sure you are following the manufacturer’s recommendations,” Brovold said. “You don’t want to put [a firework] in a Coke bottle and have the bottle fall over and shoot toward spectators.”

Children using fireworks should always be supervised by an adult, even while using sparklers, which can burn at a temperature of 2,000 degrees.

If a firework does not light after one attempt, do not try to ignite it again, Brovold said.

Brovold also suggested wetting down the area where the fireworks will be set off. Those using fireworks should refrain from lighting them on or near a dry grass area.

When it is time for clean up, Brovold said residents should not haphazardly toss dud fireworks and bits of fireworks into a garbage can. He recommended dousing the fireworks in water and stowing them in metal bin.

At the Mayflower Fireworks stand on S. 11th St., hundreds of firework options are available, from sparklers and smoke balls to items like “Country Boy” a $99 firework, which boasts the display of 186 shots.

On Wednesday afternoon, Andrea Salzman, of Niles, and her children looked over the selections displayed.

Each summer, Salzman said she allows her children to pick a few fireworks for the holiday.

Due to the trees on their property, Salzman does not allow them to pick fireworks that shoot in the air.

Among their favorites are the “tank” fireworks, which roll across the ground emitting smoke.

Her son, Luke, 9, said he enjoys the family tradition.

“[I like that] we get to light them off,” Luke said.

To assure the children’s safety, Salzman said they are only allowed to use the fireworks under adult supervision.

She also has the children wear rubber boots to protect their feet and safety glasses to protect their eyes.

For more safety tips and statistics visit cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Fireworks.

Safety 101:

• Do not leave children unsupervised with fireworks

• Have a source of water nearby

• Keep fireworks pointed away from spectators

• Do not try to re-light fireworks

• Unused or dud fireworks and pieces should be dosed in water and stowed in a metal bin