It is legal to set off private fireworks in Henderson and Kaufman Counties, and fireworks stands are selling products all around Cedar Creek Lake.

The National Fire Protection Agency recommends families leave the ignition of fireworks to professionals at public events, but the reality is private fireworks shows will be staged.

Local fire marshals urge individuals to practice safety. Children should never be allowed to light firecrackers and other fireworks.

The Consumer Products Safety Commission warns that countless individuals across the nation will seek emergency health care for serious injuries this July 4 season. Injuries will include burns and other damage to eyes, hands, fingers, arms, legs and in some severe cases burns all over the body.

Fire marshals urge county residents to carefully read label instructions before lighting any products, to ignite fireworks only outdoors in cleared areas aways from houses and other buildings, to keep water handy in the event of a fire, to only light one firework at a time, to always have an adult supervising children and to never let a young child to participate in lighting fireworks, to never throw fireworks at anyone, to wear protective eyewear and to soak fireworks in water afterwards.

Excessive alcohol consumption and fireworks ignition can lead to a tragedy.

The noise and exploding lights of fireworks terrify household pets and livestock. Pets should be kept inside with the curtains closed in a quiet room with a TV or radio playing to help calm them.

Fireworks should never be lighted in a pasture where livestock live, and there is a danger of grass catching fire.

Respect your neighbors. Discontinue the fireworks show at a reasonable hour as older people tend to retire earlier than younger adults and children.

Don't mar your July 4 Indpendence Day celebration with a tragedy.