Edwards' fire department offers July 4th safety tips Published June 26, 2007 By Kurt Stranick Fire Protection Division EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The Fourth of July is a time when family and friends gather to enjoy barbecues, picnics and fireworks displays. Unfortunately, it is also a time when people will be injured and property destroyed by the same fireworks that make this holiday festive. In California, only the "safe and sane" types of fireworks are legal for use; however, even these fireworks are not legal for use in every city. The general rule is that fireworks are legal for use in the city where they were bought. If people are planning to buy fireworks in one city and use them in another city, they should check with the fire department where they intend to use the fireworks to make sure they are legal in that city. For example "safe and sane" fireworks are legal to buy and use in Palmdale, but are illegal in Lancaster. Please remember that fireworks are prohibited on Edwards. "Safe and sane" fireworks are still dangerous. Statistics show that nationwide these types of fireworks were responsible for more injuries than any other types of fireworks. This is believed to be because the title "safe and sane" gives many people the idea that fireworks cannot hurt them. Nothing could be further from the truth. If people purchase fireworks, they should keep the following tips in mind: Always read and follow the safety directions Never take fireworks apart to build one's own fireworks Never allow children to use fireworks without adult supervision Only light one device at a time and remain a safe distance away after lighting the device Never try to re-light or handle "dud" fireworks Follow the safety directions Use fireworks in an area that is free of combustible vegetation If anyone is burned, apply cool water gently to the skin and seek medical help