MT. VERNON — The Fourth of July is a week from today, and many southern Illinois residents will have fireworks involved with their holiday plans. Whether it’s watching a large fireworks show or putting on your own show, the Mt. Vernon Fire Department wants you to be safe while enjoying your holiday.

The department’s public education officer Aaron Shook says especially in the city, you need to be extra cautious when shooting off fireworks.

Shook says although younger kids may want to be involved with holding items like sparklers, they can cause severe injury if you aren’t careful.

Shook says using common sense will go a long way and keep you and yours safe during the Fourth of July holiday.