Exploding and flying fireworks have become a staple in Independence Day celebrations. So state health officials are urging Hoosiers to take steps to be safe as they celebrate the Fourth of July with bright lights and loud bangs.

"We typically see a sharp spike in the number of fireworks-related injuries around the July Fourth holiday, especially to children and teenagers," said Charlene Graves, M.D., medical director, Injury Prevention Program at the Indiana State Department of Health. "In 2004, 52 percent of all fireworksrelated injuries were to children and adolescents, who compose only 26 percent of Indiana's population."

Legislation passed earlier this year by the Indiana General Assembly requires physicians, hospitals, and outpatient surgery centers to report all injuries resulting from fireworks or pyrotechnics to the State Department of Health.

In 2004, there were 233 cases of fireworks injuries reported to the State Department of Health. Twentyfive percent of the total injuries involved the eyes, 67 percent were burns, and 19 percent required specialized care for burns or eye injuries. Eighty-eight percent of people with eye injuries were not using any method of eye protection.

"Fireworks injuries are often severe, and, in the worst cases, can result in blindness or loss of a finger or even a hand. We want everyone to remember that most fireworks injuries can be prevented," said Dr. Graves.

Dr. Graves says that the best way to prevent fireworks injuries is to attend a public fireworks display rather than buying fireworks for personal use. But she says that if people insist on using fireworks at home, they should follow these safety tips: vDon't allow young children to play with fireworks, including sparklers; vClosely supervise older children who are permitted to use fireworks; vDon't allow any boisterous play while fireworks are being used; vAlways wear eye protection when lighting or using any fireworks; vBefore using any fireworks, read and follow all warning instructions; vLight fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from houses and flammable materials; vKeep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and dousing fireworks that don't go off; vDon't try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Instead, soak them with water and throw them away; vBe sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks; vNever ignite fireworks in a container, especially one made of glass or metal; vStore fireworks in a dry, cool place, according to the instructions.