More fires are reported on the Fourth of July than any other day of the year in the United States, according to the National Fire Protection Association's Fire Analysis and Research Report.

More than half of these fires are caused by fireworks. Still, thousands of families will use fireworks in residential areas.

"People may not know that the tip of a sparkler burns at a temperature of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit -- this is hot enough to cause third-degree burns," said Purnima Unni, Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention Coordinator at Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt Hospital.

She warned, "Leaving the pyrotechnics to the experts is the number-one way to avoid injuries. But if you will be celebrating in an area where you know fireworks will be handled by friends or family, lay down strict rules for your children to follow to stay safe."

Here are some tips:

* Always read and follow all warnings and label instructions;

* Always have an adult present, and never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks. Sparklers are often considered to be the ideal "safe" firework for the young, but they burn at very high temperatures and can easily ignite clothing;

* The adult igniting the fireworks should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the fireworks;

* Use fireworks only outdoors;

* Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks;

* Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket);

* Only light fireworks on a smooth, flat surface away from the house, dry leaves, and flammable materials.

* Light only one firework at a time;

* Never throw or point fireworks at other people or animals;

* Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers;

* Never re-light 'dud' fireworks. Douse and soak them with water and throw them away, and

* Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in a trash can.