Fireworks are an important part of ringing in the New Year. They explode loudly and shine brightly against the night sky, spreading hope to millions of people across the globe. Pearl River County Fire Marshal Albert Lee advises people to use common sense before lighting fireworks during the holiday.

Lee said residents should first and foremost ensure children near fireworks are supervised at all times.

“That’s the biggest thing to watch out for, because even if fireworks appear super small, they may cause fires,” Lee said.

Pearl River County hasn’t experience any serious firework-related disasters, but Lee said people should continue to use common sense to avoid any danger.

Before lighting fireworks, make sure the city or county allows them. Both the county’s municipalities, Picayune and Poplarville, have ordinances that prohibit the firing and use of fireworks within the city limits. However, the city of Picayune does allow the use of fireworks from June 15 to July 5 and Dec. 5 to Jan. 2, according to the city’s ordinance. Lee said residents can shoot fireworks throughout the year outside of cities in Pearl River County.

The National Council on Fireworks Safety offered tips on how to use fireworks safely:

­—Obey all local laws concerning firework usage.

—Read the cautionary labels of fireworks before igniting.

—Supervise children at all times.

—Don’t drink alcohol while igniting fireworks.

—Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.

—Move away after lighting up a firework.

—Use fireworks outdoors, away from any buildings.

—Have a bucket of water and water hose nearby in case of an emergency.

—Don’t experiment with homemade fireworks.

—In order to dispose of used fireworks properly, wet them down and place them in a metal trashcan away from buildings or combustible materials.

—It’s illegal to possess or transport fireworks by plane, whether it’s in a checked baggage or carry-on luggage.

—Report illegal explosives, including M-80s and quarter sticks, to the local fire or police department.

For more information about firework safety, visit www.fireworkssafety.org.