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Tips to stay safe when using fireworks, sparklers

Stay safe over the July 4th weekend with these tips from Columbia Fire Chief Aubrey Jenkins.

One of the traditions of celebrating July 4th is using fireworks and sparklers.

However, there can be dangers when using fireworks.

Chief Aubrey Jenkins from the Columbia Fire Department stopped by News19 and provided tips to stay safe when using fireworks during the holiday weekend.

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Chief Jenkins suggests that when setting off fireworks, to make sure to set them on the ground, preferably on concrete, when lighting them.  Try to avoid setting them off near straw or near homes.

He also said that when using sparklers, hold them far enough away from your body, do not throw them, and have a bucket of water or sand nearby to safely extinguish them.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission provides additional safety tips when using fireworks.

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