1. Follow Local Laws and Use Common Sense - Follow your local and state laws regarding the display and possession of fireworks. Make certain to read and follow all directions, caution labels and warnings labels on each individual firework device and use good common sense when using fireworks.

2. Children Should Not Handle Fireworks - Never allow children to handle, play with and/or light any type of fireworks. Fireworks burn very hot and are only intended to be handled by adults.

3. Do Not Consume Alcohol With Fireworks - Do not consume alcohol while handling fireworks. Fireworks must be used by adults who act in a responsible manner and are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

4. Use Fireworks In A Clear, Open Area - Always light fireworks in a clear, open area free of overhead objects. Always provide for a safe distance between buildings, vehicles and any viewing audience. A minimum clear radius of 30 feet for fountains and other ground-based items and 100 yards for any aerial based firework is recommended. Avoid using fireworks in an area where there is dry brush or grass or other flammable items that could catch fire.

5. Use Fireworks On A Hard Surface - Always light fireworks on a hard, flat, and level surface to insure stability of the device. Grass is not suitable for any aerial items. Use a flat wooden board for a shooting surface.

6. Keep Clear Of The Fireworks - Never extend any part of your body over the top of any firework product. Never look into the top of a lighted fireworks item. Never hold any lighted firework item in your hand. Never shot fireworks in a glass or metal container.

7. Use Care When Lighting Fireworks - Always light fireworks with a punk, pyro-torch, flare or an extended butane lighting device which will enable you to keep as far from the firework as possible. Use a flashlight at night so the fuse may be seen easily. Never use a lantern or other flame producing device near fireworks for illumination. Light the firework and get away quickly.

8. Light One At A Time - Always light one firework item at a time.

9. Don’t Use Malfunctioning Items - Never attempt to re-ignite, alter, or fix any fireworks device which has failed to fire. If a firework fails to ignite, let it stand for at least five minutes, then immerse it in water. Dispose of the item properly.

10. Have Water Close By - Always have a form of fire suppression nearby. (fire extinguisher, hose, or bucket of water). There should always be one person whose sole job it is to be alert to any emergencies.

11. Windy Conditions - Be cautious of igniting any fireworks during high wind conditions. Fireworks should be lit with the prevailing wind blowing away from spectators. If there is a significant wind shift during the time you are lighting fireworks, you should rearrange the shooting site.

12. Never Use Fireworks As A Weapon - Never aim, point, throw, or shoot fireworks at another person or animal.

13. Use Care When Handling Fireworks - Do not carry fireworks in your pocket. Never smoke when handling fireworks.

14. Storage Of Fireworks - Always store fireworks in a cool, dry place and dispose of properly.

15. Only Use Fireworks Outdoors - Never use fireworks indoors!

16. Purchase Fireworks From Reliable, Licensed Dealers - Buy fireworks only from reliable, licensed fireworks dealers. Licensed and reliable fireworks dealers will only carry those products that meet standards set by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

17. Safety Glasses - Safety glasses are recommended when lighting fireworks and for those individuals in close proximity to fireworks.

18. Do Not Transport Fireworks on Airplanes - It is a violation of Federal law to transport any fireworks on an airplane.

Additional safety information may be found at the following resources listed below:

 http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/headquarters_offices/ash/ash_programs/hazmat/passenger_info/

http://www.fireworksafety.com

http://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/firesafety/fireworks/index.html