From the National Council on Fireworks Safety, the following are some safety guidelines for shooting off fireworks:

Use outdoors only.

Obey local laws. If fireworks are not legal where you live, do not use them.

Always have water handy (a hose or buckets of water.)

Only use fireworks as intended. Don’t try to alter them or combine them.

Never relight a “dud” firework (wait 20 minutes then soak it in a bucket of water.)

Use common sense when using fireworks. Spectators should keep a safe distance from the shooter and the shooter should wear safety glasses.

Alcohol and fireworks so not mix. Have a designated shooter.

Only a person over age 12 should be allowed to handle sparklers of any type. (Note, you must be 12 to purchase fireworks in the state of Mississippi.)

Do not ever use homemade fireworks or illegal explosives.

Other safety guidelines include:

Do not hold in your hand.

Use on concrete, asphalt, or other level and hard surface and never on grass or an uneven surface.