EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Fireworks are a big part of the Fourth of July, and fire officials are once again warning people of the dangers that come with setting them off.

Below is some important information on fireworks in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

Are fireworks legal?

In Rhode Island, anyone 16 and older can use ground-based and handheld fireworks such as sparklers, as long as they they don’t launch a projectile or produce a bang.

It’s against the law to sell, use or possess aerial fireworks.

No fireworks, including sparklers, are allowed in Massachusetts, unless the user has a permit and certification. The law also covers fireworks bought legally out of state.

“Fireworks and sparklers are not safe, especially around children. Sparklers burn at temperatures of over 1,800° Fahrenheit. This is hotter than the melting point of aluminum! Children suffer some of the most severe burn injuries caused by sparklers,” the Mass. Department of Fire Services warns .

Their advice is to simply leave the fireworks to the professionals.

Where can I watch fireworks?

No matter where you live, you won’t have to drive far to catch a professional fireworks show. Over the next week or so, events are planned across Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts, many of which also involve live music, food trucks and other festivities.

The Mass. Department of Fire Services also put together a list of fireworks displays spanning across the Commonwealth.

Fireworks safety

Anyone who decides to light their own fireworks is urged to do so safely. The American Red Cross shared the following steps to take:

• Never give fireworks to small children.
• Never point or throw a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.
• Always follow the instructions on the packaging.
• Keep a supply of water close by.
• Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
• Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight a “dud.”
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
• Never use fireworks around pets, keep pets indoors. Exposure to lit fireworks can potentially result in severe burns or trauma, and many pets are also fearful of loud noises and can become lost, scared or disoriented.

Fireworks must also be disposed of properly by fully soaking them in water before putting them in the trash.

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