This weekend is expected to be the biggest time of year of when people shoot off fireworks across Iowa.

While it’s illegal to set off anything other than sparklers, snakes and caps in the state without a permit, it’s still a good time to go over some safety reminders when handling fireworks.

Jefferson Fire Chief Randy Love says when lighting fireworks, make sure you do so away from your body or clothes.  With the recent rainfall, he states that you can light fireworks either on pavement or on the grass since the ground is no longer dry.  Love suggests that you don’t ignite any fireworks that are within any trash or other flammable materials.

He recommends having a bucket of water nearby to put out anything that might catch on fire by accident or if a firework doesn’t explode.

If an accident does occur, call 911 and the fire department will help to contain the situation.