It’s time to celebrate once again the passage of the Declaration of Independence — a Fourth of July holiday many look forward to with parties, cookouts — and, of course, fireworks.

This amazing country really takes its fireworks seriously. It’s common to see in neighborhoods expensive and dazzling displays of sparkle and explosion. Americans spent a whopping $2.3 billion on fireworks in 2023 — three times what was spent on the celebration materials in 2012. According to the American Pyrotechnics Association, 416.3 million pounds of fireworks were set off in 2021 — professional display fireworks reached 12.5 million pounds.

It’s a great holiday with great fun — and with some danger, along with irritation on the part of folks who don’t appreciate loud booms late into the night for multiple nights.

Here’s hoping that people use common sense and appreciation and consideration that 2 a.m. booming blasts not only keep people awake but can hurl pets into serious anxiety. Laws dictate when and where fireworks can be used, but common sense is also needed.

Beyond that, we’re hopeful people will be thoughtful about fireworks safety. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 10,200 people were treated at emergency rooms and 11 people were killed in connection with fireworks in 2022.

A Florence man in 2023 was killed after he attempted to light a commercial-grade firework, according to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office.

Some tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission:

•Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers;

•Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or any accident;

•Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly;

•Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that did not fully ignite;

•Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Burns are the most frequent injury, mostly from firecrackers and sparklers.

Please be safe and have a happy Fourth.