FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WOWO): The Fort Wayne Fire Department is offering some safety tips to promote safe fireworks use this Independence Day weekend.

The City of Fort Wayne dates and times for the use of consumer fireworks are June 29 through July 3 and July 5 through July 9 between 5 p.m. to two hours after sunset (11 p.m.). July 4th hours are between 10 a.m. and midnight.

FWFD offered the following safety tips for using personal fireworks:

• Never let children handle, play with, or light any fireworks
• Always read directions and warning labels on fireworks. If a device is not marked with the contents, directions and warning label, do not light it.
• Please remember to be considerate of your neighbors and their property.
• Please remember that sudden, loud explosive noises, flashes of light and the smell of powder may trigger unwanted memories for some.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
• While setting off fireworks, eye and hand protection should always be worn to avoid burns.
• Wet the area down before and after using fireworks.
• Use in a clear, open area. Keep the audience a safe distance away from the shooting site.
• Remember to use care with fireworks in the vicinity of your launch zone. Sparks from active fireworks can ignite idle fireworks and cause injury. Fireworks awaiting use should be kept in a closed container to prevent falling sparks from inadvertently igniting them.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never light fireworks indoors.
• Light only one firework at a time.
• Never hold fireworks in your hand to light.
• Never attempt to re-light, alter, or fix and “dud” fireworks item.
• Do not alter any fireworks device or make your own fireworks.
• Have a fire extinguisher, water supply, hose, or bucket of water nearby.
• Soak your used fireworks in water before properly disposing them.
• Adults should clean up after the show and the next day when you can see the area to prevent harm to anyone, particularly a child, from an unexploded or “dud” fireworks.
• Please remember to be considerate of your pets, as fireworks can cause them a great deal of stress.