The Fourth of July will be here before we know it, which means Queen Creek residents will soon be able to legally buy some fireworks.

Consumer fireworks, including ground and hand-held sparkling devices, are legal to purchase and use within the town from June 24 -July 6.

However, any fireworks that go into the air are illegal. Legal consumer fireworks are only allowed on private property.

Residents who use, discharge or ignite allowed consumer fireworks are responsible and liable for any expenses that may result from an emergency response.

The United States Product Safety Commission has these fireworks safety tips:

• Adults should always supervise firework activities. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework device when lighting. Immediately move back to a safe distance after lighting and only light one at a time.
• Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.
• Never point or throw fireworks at people.
• Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy.
• Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
• Douse spent fireworks with plenty of water before discarding them in order to prevent a trash fire.

Residents can report the use of illegal fireworks such as bottle rockets, firecrackers, roman candles or other aerial devices by contacting the Queen Creek Police Department’s non-emergency number at 480-358-3500.