FORT WAYNE, Ind (Indiana's NewsCenter)-Celebrating our nations independence would not be complete without fireworks. Smoke bombs, sparklers and bottle rockets can be a lot of fun, but it's important to keep safety in mind at all times.

Andrea Burton, Fort Wayne Fire Department Fire Inspector says "We ask that you keep the attendance area separate from the launch area. Know what kind of firework you are actually using and what it does. We are also asking those who are under the age of 18 do not light fireworks. Have a parent or adult supervision there."

Fire safety officials recommend wearing a pair of safety goggles and gloves when launching fireworks. You can also buy slow burning wicks to attach to fireworks, giving you more time to clear the launch area.

Burton says people lighting fireworks should "Make sure you are cautious of the area. You want to light them in a wide area and watch your neighbors houses. Watch for pets as well. They react differently to loud noises."

Even though they may look innocent, sparklers can get six times as hot as a pan of cooking oil. Last year hospitals treated 136 injuries caused by sparklers - 98 of which were burns to children under five years old.

In Fort Wayne, the hours to legally launch fireworks through July ninth are from 5 pm until around 11. On July fourth it's 10 am until midnight. Hours differ by county so check with your fire department or law enforcement agency.

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