DECATUR - The Fourth of July brings out many traditions, including cookouts and parades. But at least one tradition can be dangerous if not properly handled.

Fireworks light up the sky every year in displays across the area. Fireworks can also be found in the back yards of many homes.

Larry Ball, inspector for the Decatur Fire Department, encourages the public to keep safety in mind when making plans for fireworks. Ball is in charge of issuing city fireworks permits.

Permits must be obtained 15 days before lighting off the fireworks and carry a $25 fee. Before getting a permit, the person must pass a safety test administered by the fire department.

Ball has noticed a sizeable decrease in permits recently, from 75 to 20.

"It's a space issue; there just aren't many areas in Decatur that can fulfill the space requirement," Ball said.

The location where the fireworks will be ignited must be clear in every direction by 200 feet or be clear in a circumference of 400 feet. An on-site test is given before granting the permit.

After obtaining a permit, the person receives a list of fireworks that can be set off and those that cannot.

Those allowed include cones, phantoms and tubes. Also allowed are novelty items such as sparklers and snakes, which can be found at nonlicensed retail shops.

Fireworks not allowed include bottle rockets, firecrackers, roman candles and skyrockets.

"These are things that shoot erratically and therefore pose a threat to those watching them," Ball said.

Ball investigates complaints after receiving phone calls from neighbors. If a violation is found, a $50 fine can be assessed and the fireworks confiscated.

The American Red Cross encourages the public to purchase fireworks from a reliable seller.

Judy Cox, director of public support for the Red Cross, has provided these fireworks tips:

* Fireworks should be legal in your community. Regulations differ, so it is important to check them out before purchasing or using foreworks.

* Consider where the fireworks are to be used. They should be placed on a smooth, flat surface away from houses, dry leaves and other flammable items.

* The person lighting the fireworks should be a responsible adult who is wearing safety goggles. Protection for one's ears should be considered.

"If you have sensitive ears, stick with fireworks that will not make loud noise, or purchase mild ear plugs that will muffle the noise made by the fireworks so you can enjoy them without harm to your ears," Cox said.

* Before lighting fireworks, read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

* If the packaging appears to have been tampered with, do not attempt to light the firework.

* When lighting the firework, simply extend one arm toward the wick to light it, then move away. Do not hover over it.

Kristy Mellendorf can be reached at kmellendorf@herald-review.com or 421-6977.