Given all this area has seen over the past few weeks, we need something to celebrate. But let’s make sure we do it safely — and legally.

Fireworks are as much a part of summer celebrations as food, parades and pool parties. Of course, as we approach the Fourth of July, there will be fireworks aplenty — many set off as part of private celebrations, rather than the big community shows. Here in West Virginia, it is important to know the rules where you live. State law makes the use of consumer fireworks legal, but that does not mean every municipality agrees.

For example, Wheeling outlaws the use of fireworks within city limits, and in 2021 enhanced the penalties for using fireworks from $100 to $500.

Moundsville also has an ordinance on the books that outlaws the use of fireworks. Other cities in our region, both in West Virginia and Ohio, have toughened up their ordinances on personal use of fireworks.

Be informed before you light those fuses. Otherwise it could cost you — either through a fine or, worse, a trip to the emergency room.

More important than knowing those rules is knowing how to be safe and considerate with all those tiny explosives. According to Phantom Fireworks Companies, guidelines include keeping a source of water close at hand; maintaining plenty of distance from launch sites, spectators and inhabited buildings; and communicating with those in the vicinity.

Safety, common sense and courtesy go hand-in-hand during the use of fireworks, and it is also important to respect curfews and noise ordinances, and clean up any fireworks debris — particularly if any of that debris lands on neighbors’ property or in streets.

We should also remember not everyone enjoys even the smallest of fireworks displays.

Have fun with your celebrations this weekend, folks, but be smart, safe and considerate. Give everyone a chance to enjoy the festivities.