Tips from the DNR to stay safe this weekend

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has some advice to make the 4th of July weekend a safer one when it comes to fireworks and campfires:

Fireworks:

— Sparklers can reach 18 hundred degrees Fahrenheit — hot enough to melt gold.  Always place sparklers in a bucket of water when they have gone out; when thrown on the ground, they can cause grass fires.

— Point fireworks away from homes and keep them away from brush, grass and leaves.

— Chinese lanterns can stay airborne for 20 minutes and reach heights up to 1 mile high before coming down in unplanned locations.  The open flame has the potential to start fires.

— Soak all fireworks in water before throwing them in the trash.

Campfires:

— Use fire rings in nonflammable areas when possible.

— Never leave a campfire unattended.

— Keep a water source and shovel nearby.

— Place roasting sticks in a bucket of water when not in use.

— Completely extinguish fires before turning in for the night.  Douse with water, stir and douse again to make sure no embers are left.