'Put Safety First' with Fireworks; Teen Loses Both Hands

With burn bans, excessive heat and local regulations, there are few places in St. Louis County where personal fireworks use is permitted this Fourth of July. It is illegal to sell, possess and use fireworks in both and , without a city-authorized permit.

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But as a U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission spokeswoman said on a video included here, "put safety first" whether you are attending a professional display, or in your own backyard.

A teen, Justin Henderson, shows how he lost both hands mixing chemicals on the video here. "When it goes off, it can really change your life," he said. "It's not worth it."

Even if only using firecrackers, remember to watch out for dry conditions. 

The American Red Cross also offers these helpful safety tips for personal firework usage.

• Never give fireworks to small children, and always follow the instructions on the packaging.
• Keep a supply of water close by as a precaution.
• Make sure the person lighting fireworks always wears eye protection.
• Light only one firework at a time and never attempt to relight "a dud."
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place away from children and pets.
• Never throw or point a firework toward people, animals, vehicles, structures or flammable materials.
• Stay at least 500 feet away from professional fireworks displays.
• Leave any area immediately where untrained amateurs are using fireworks.