BEAUMONT, Texas — Southeast Texans are gearing up for 4th of July celebrations, but as you enjoy the festivities, it's important to be safe especially if you're setting off fireworks.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, teens were the group who were treated for the most firework related injuries.
This a troubling trend as injuries from fireworks have only increased over the last 15 years.
12News spoke with experts on what to think about when you celebrate.
Firefighters tell 12News that even the safest firework can still start a fire. No matter what type of firework, sparkler or popper you light, it's necessary to take precautions.
"Significant burns to the fingers, significant injuries to the fingers, to the face as well leaving life, changing scars," said Port Neches Fire Chief Eloy Vega.
With decades of experience, Vega says he's seen a lot of firework-related injuries.
"Even to the point where some people have lost their sight," Vega said.
Shelly Metts, the co-owner of Stroud's Fireworks in Nederland says it's important to be aware of who is using the fireworks.
"Always a good idea to have the adults light the fireworks, not the kids. Keep the kids safety in mind. And if you are letting them do sparklers or different things like that, make sure there is an adult present so that they can monitor them as well," Metts said.
Firefighters say sparklers can burn just as badly as the big fireworks. They say to never point them at others.
Sparklers are especially popular to kids like 8-year-old Mason Martin.
"I like to pretend I'm Dr. Strange," Mason told 12News.
He looks forward to watching 4th of July fireworks.
"Just seeing the cool lights, and seeing how loud they can get," said Mason.
His mom, Christina Martin says she takes several precautions with her three kids.
"So every year we have a bucket of water that we keep on the side, just for precaution and everything. And the kids they stay back while dad lights the fireworks. And they get to watch the show," Christina said.
Firefighters say if a firework accidentally starts a fire that you cant put out, call 911 right away.