As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, you should be extra careful using fireworks.

The Shreveport Fire Department has issued these tips:

Know your fireworks — read the cautionary labels and performance descriptions before igniting.
Fireworks should only be used outdoors. Never light fireworks indoors or near dry grass.
Avoid using homemade fireworks or illegal explosives. They CAN kill you!
Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from buildings and vehicles.
Never carry fireworks in your pocket or shoot them into metal or glass containers. Light one firework at a time and quickly move away. Don’t light them while they’re in your hands, either.
A responsible adult should supervise all fireworks activities. NEVER give fireworks to children.
Always have a hose, fire extinguisher or water bucket ready, in case of an emergency.
Stand several feet away from lit fireworks. If a device does not go off, DO NOT stand over it to investigate — put it out with water. DO NOT pick it up!
Alcohol and fireworks do not mix. Save your alcohol for after the show.

When can you buy fireworks in the local area? You can do that in Shreveport beginning at noon June 25, up until 10 p.m. July 5.

You CAN NOT shoot off fireworks from 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. each day.

Fireworks may be sold and discharged within the city limits of Bossier City from June 28 through July 5, inclusive, from  10 a.m. until 10 p.m.

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