The National Fire Protection Association has released a new public-education video on YouTube, stressing the dangers of fireworks. “Exploding Myths: The Dangers of Consumer Fireworks” depicts headlines of fireworks tragedies from across the country and lists all of the consumer fireworks that cause fires and/or injuries each year.

According to NFPA research, there are far more U.S. fires reported on a typical Independence Day than on any other day, and fireworks account for more than half of those fires. In 2008, fireworks caused an estimated 22,500 reported fires, including 1,400 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires, and 20,600 outside and other fires. These fires resulted in an estimated $42 million in direct property damage.

More information on fireworks can be found at www.nfpa.org/fireworks.