I took a break from working on today’s newspaper Friday evening to walk around my yard in the dark.

I wasn’t admiring the landscaping — instead I was checking to make sure nothing was on fire.

You see, ever since Ohio’s fireworks law changed, the people of Belmont celebrate July 4 in a big way. There is no official community event, but some folks in our neighborhood put on quite a show that many others in the village enjoy. Perhaps if I lived a block or two further from the action, I would enjoy them more myself. As it is, though, they make me worry more than they entertain me.

I certainly don’t blame folks for wanting to celebrate our independence and have a good time. But Belmont is filled with old wooden buildings that, under the wrong circumstances, could burn very quickly.

I am glad that we have newer metal roofs and siding on old buildings that we own, since that makes it less likely that a spark might catch and take off.

There is no point in complaining since the activity is perfectly legal. So, after a few years of being as nervous as a cat during the display, I have learned to watch and wait — and then walk around and check everything, just to ensure my peace of mind.

If you do decide to celebrate with fireworks of your own this weekend, please do so with extreme caution. Not only are they a potential fire hazard, but they can easily injure a user or a bystander.

To help prevent that, follow these tips from the Ohio State Fire Marshal’s Office:

∫ Never use fireworks while impaired by drugs or alcohol.

∫ Always wear protective eyewear when handling fireworks.

∫ Never light fireworks indoors or near people, houses, or flammable materials.

∫ Light one device at a time and maintain a safe distance afterward.

∫ Keep a bucket of water nearby for extinguishing fireworks or potential fires.

∫ Never attempt to re-light malfunctioning fireworks. Instead, dispose of the malfunctioning firework safely by dousing it with water or placing it in a bucket of water for 20 minutes or longer.

The fire marshal also advises residents to handle novelty fireworks, such as sparklers, with extreme care. Adults should always supervise the use of these fireworks and never allow children under 12 to handle sparklers, which burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Used sparklers should be placed in water immediately after use to prevent injury.

It is noted that residents should never attempt to modify or produce their own homemade fireworks due to the significant dangers involved. In June, one individual was killed and two others critically injured following a house explosion in Trumbull County, where investigators found that the individuals were in the process of making homemade fireworks inside a garage when the explosion occurred.

And speaking of safety, the fire marshal also has tips for hosting a safe cookout.

∫ Keep grills at least 3 feet from homes, deck railings, and overhanging branches.

∫ Inspect propane tanks and fuel lines for leaks before use.

∫ Never leave grills unattended and keep children and pets at least 3 feet away.

∫ Clean grease buildup from trays and grates to prevent flare-ups.

The Division of Liquor Control, meanwhile, reminds Ohioans to use alcohol responsibly during the holiday. Consumers should stay hydrated, eat meals and always plan safe transportation if consuming alcohol away from home. Party hosts are urged to provide nonalcoholic options and ensure guests have safe rides. Alcohol should never be served to individuals under 21 or those already intoxicated.

The Division of Cannabis Control also reminds adults that use of non-medical cannabis among individuals under the age of 21 is prohibited, and providing cannabis to minors can lead to fines and possible jail time.

In addition, use of non-medical cannabis in public spaces is a minor misdemeanor in Ohio, and state law prohibiting smoking or vaping in public indoor spaces also applies to cannabis.

On that note, I wish each and every one of you a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend filled with friends, family and fun. Stay safe out there, and remember that we are celebrating our freedom.