Police remind public to stay safe this Fourth of July

With the Fourth of July two weeks away, more and more people across Michiana are starting to set off fireworks, and officials remind you to stay safe.

Before you grab a lighter, there are steps you can take to prevent dangerous accidents.

• young children should never be near fireworks, lit or unlit
• older kids should only use them with adult supervision
• when lighting them off make sure you're a good distance away from any dry grass or other flammable materials like your house or garage
• never try to re-light a firework that doesn't go off the first time
• keep a bucket of water nearby to put used fireworks in it and let them soak for a few hours before throwing them away to avoid accidental fires
• and remember, there are drought conditions right now

Sgt. Ted Bohner of the Indiana State Police stated, "If it's that dry you know, My suggestion would be don't be setting them off in your backyard. You know, watch the professionals do it. Where it's a more of a controlled environment."

So, stay safe and have fun this Fourth of July.