Where I live, the Fourth of July is celebrated much as it is in other parts of the country, with barbeques, parades and municipal fireworks displays. Out here in the West, we also enjoy 'safe and sane' fireworks. I am here to confess that many of my happy childhood memories are linked to these fireworks---from pounding on 'caps' in my driveway with a brick and lighting 'snakes' and sparklers to watching my father send pop-bottle rockets into the night sky. What bliss!

As an adult living in the wildland/urban interface (WUI), however, I find myself a little skittish around July 4---especially when fountains, pop-bottle rockets and sparklers are popping and crackling all over the neighborhood. I worry about them starting a fire, as they quite frequently do. After all, it is summertime.

If you live in the WUI, remember that your home is a precious asset that can burn. If you use fireworks, light them on a non-flammable surface like asphalt or concrete---not on cured grass. Keep water at the ready. Avoid letting sparks shower on flammable surfaces including roofs, mulch, and other flammable vegetation. And only use fireworks marked 'safe and sane' or those approved by your state fire marshal. If you do not, you may discover yourself calling 911 instead of enjoying a wonderful holiday. And THAT could be embarrassing.

Finally, be sure to check local regulations, as some areas have tight restrictions regarding when fireworks (even 'safe and sane' ones) can be used.

Enjoy the holiday!

Judith Leraas Cook
Firewise Communities/USA