Things to know when using fireworks for the upcoming holiday weekend

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY-TV) New Year's Eve is just days away, meaning some locals are stocking up on fireworks.

But some can be dangerous if they're not handled properly.

With New Year’s landing on a weekend, more locals are expected to celebrate, some with fireworks.

It may be a fun way to ring in the New Year but it’s important to take extra precautions when playing with firecrackers.  

“If people are going to use fireworks, make them legal fireworks. If it’s something that leaves the ground or something that explodes, something that throws flaming debris into the air, those are illegal in the state of Arizona,” said Public Information Officer for the Yuma Fire Department Mike Erfert. 

Items sold in stores and tents are okay to purchase but you still have to be careful when you’re using them.

“Make sure if you are doing them with children, make sure you are supervising your children and read the back of the packages,” said firework stand worker Adrian Deleon. 

Over the years the Yuma Fire Department has seen house fires sparked by fireworks and encourages you to double-check every flame is completely out when you’re finished celebrating.  

“Make sure when you use them, make sure you have a garden hose, fire distinguisher handy, that you soak down whatever’s leftover afterward to make sure they don’t reignite during the night,” said Erfert. 

It's also important to make sure you are aware of your surroundings.

“Keeping it away from any kind of flammable materials because that’s what we’re talking about here, we are talking about things that are very capable of reigniting larger fires, so keeping them away from dry grass or other debris or things like that,” said Erfert. 

 The Yuma fire department says if you do see any illegal fires you can always dial 9-1-1.