With millions of American lawns soon to resemble miniature battlefields, an association representing the fireworks industry has released safety tips meant to keep causalities and collateral damage to a minimum.

"While the number of fireworks-related injuries and fires has declined significantly, safety must always be the number one priority when using fireworks," said Julie Heckman, executive director of the American Pyrotechnics Association.

American consumers spent $775 million on July 4th fireworks in 2015, a $60 million increase from the previous year, according to APA. The organization didn't provide any numbers about firework-related injuries or property damage, but the National Fire Protection Association said U.S. fire departments responded to 18,500 fires caused by fireworks between 2008-2013, with more than a quarter of those reports coming on July 4th. NFPA also said hospital emergency rooms treated 10,500 people for fireworks-related injuries in 2014 alone, with the risk of injury highest for children ages 5-19. http://bit.ly/295b8VM

While APA encouraged the safe use of fireworks, the association said it has seen a rise in viral videos mixing extreme stunts with fireworks in order to drive up views.

"Fireworks and extreme stunts do not mix," Heckman said. "Fireworks, when used appropriately and in accordance with legal safety standards, are a safe, enjoyable and family-friendly entertainment experience."

APA has the following tips for anyone who plans to set off fireworks during the holiday:

• Before purchasing fireworks, check local regulations regarding fireworks use. For instance, many communities do not allow fireworks to be used inside city limits and during burn bans, and some communities have age limits for purchasing fireworks.

• Purchase fireworks from an accredited company that sells legal fireworks. For more information on a state's firework control laws, visit APA's website at https://pyro.memberclicks.net/state-law-directory.

• After purchasing fireworks, always store them in a cool, dry place.

• Determine a safe location for use in an open area with a connected hose, bucket of water, or other water source nearby.

• Make sure to follow all instructions on the packaging for safe use.

• Never let children handle or operate fireworks.

• After using fireworks, allow used fireworks to stand for at least 20 minutes, then soak the remaining tubes and materials in water, drain, place in a plastic bag and dispose outside in a covered trash can.

• Be thoughtful to individuals—such as military service men and women and even pets and other animals—that may have sensitivities to the loud noises fireworks can generate. For example, pets should be kept away from noise and fireworks displays and packages.

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