The July 4th Holiday should be remembered as a fun and enjoyable time when we reflect on the liberties we have, remember those who have and are serving our country, and enjoy time with family and friends over delicious barbecue.

A tragic incident with fireworks can literally scar those memories.

According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, in 2013, there were eight deaths and an estimated 11,400 consumers who sustained injuries related to fireworks nationwide. This is an increase from 8,700 injuries in 2012. In 2013, sparklers and rockets accounted for more than 40 percent of all estimated injuries.

The Columbia Police Department and the Columbia Fire Department want to remind citizens that discharging and/or possessing fireworks with city limits is prohibited by City Ordinance. The Columbia Police Department will have extra patrol officers on duty for fireworks enforcement from Thursday, June 30, 2016 until Tuesday, July 5, 2016. If you have a fireworks complaint, please contact the Boone County Joint Communications non-emergency line at (573) 442-6131. DO NOT call 9-1-1, unless it's an emergency.

This 4th of July, leave the fireworks to the professionals and attend the FREE Fire in the Sky event in Downtown Columbia. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. with activities and entertainment at Flat Branch Park and Peace Park. The fireworks display begins at 9:15 p.m. and will be launched from the parking garage at Sixth Street and Cherry Street. As a reminder DO NOT bring fireworks to this display.

The Columbia Police Department and the Columbia Fire Department wishes everyone a safe and fun 4th of July!

For more information on the City of Columbia Fire in the Sky visit: https://www.como.gov/ParksandRec/Activities_and_Programs/4thjuly.php.

For more information on fireworks safety visit: http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Newsroom/News-Releases/2013/New-CPSC-Fireworks-Injury-Data/.