The Geneva Police Department is echoing the message of the Office of the State Fire Marshal when it comes to the Fourth of July weekend – leave the fireworks to the experts.

Fireworks pose a danger to users and bystanders of all ages. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks were responsible for an estimated 11,400 injuries and eight deaths in 2013. Injuries typically result from the user playing with lit fireworks or igniting a device while still in their hand. Accidents can also take place from device malfunctions.

Those at the greatest risk of injury are young children under age 9. Children often come in contact with items that are perceived to be less powerful, such as sparklers and bottle rockets. However, all fireworks have the potential for causing damage and injury. Sparklers burn at temperatures of above 1,200 degrees, which is hot enough to melt glass.

Fireworks also are responsible for extensive property damage every year due to inexperienced handlers, device unpredictability and lack of safety precautions.

Under the Illinois Fireworks Act, it is illegal to possess, purchase or use consumer fireworks without an official consumer display permit. For more information about fireworks safety, visit the State Fire Marshal’s website at the link below.