Fireworks are popular for ringing in the New Year, but they can be dangerous if they are used improperly.

The Clanton Fire Department offers safety tips for those who want to kick off their New Year with a “bang!”

“The main thing is adult supervision,” Clanton Fire Chief David Driver said. “It’s not good to send a child out with fireworks without a responsible adult.”

Before shooting fireworks, it’s mandatory to read and understand all instructions and warnings provided by the manufacturer.

These instructions are typically printed on the products themselves or the packaging.

Fireworks should never be aimed toward a structure or near anything that could pose a fire hazard.

Never aim fireworks at a person, even if it is done as a joke. This could result in serious injury.

The products should always be treated with respect.

There are also rules for discarding used fireworks after they have been fired.

“Discarded fireworks should not be thrown in the garbage,” Driver said.

All product should be soaked with water prior to disposal to ensure that there is no possibility of a spark. Failure to do so could result in a fire.