With the 4th of July here, local officials are asking citizens to practice safe habits throughout the holiday weekend.

The biggest concern this 4th of July is the issue of fireworks safety. Jerry Milton with the public health and safety department for the city of Clinton says the 4th of July is a fun time, but he reminds parents to keep a watch on kids who are handling fireworks.

[audio:fireworkssafety1.mp3]Jerry Milton on Safety[/audio]

The fireworks of the illegal variety will almost definitely get shot off throughout the weekend. Clinton Police Chief Mike Reidy also notes possession of illegal fireworks is a criminal offense. Reidy says if fireworks packages are labeled "Caution", they are legal in Illinois, however, if they read "Warning", then they are illegal.

[audio:fireworkssafety4.mp3]Chief Reidy on Safety[/audio]

Clinton Fire Chief Shawn Milton says if you are going to handle illegal fireworks to observing the city regulations of distance from buildings and objects. He also suggest using a punk instead of a lighter or matches to light those fireworks off.

[audio:fireworkssafety3.mp3]Shawn Milton on Safety[/audio]

Authorities also ask to practice safe drinking habits. If you have been drinking, do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle, appoint a designated driver, alcohol is involved in over 40 percent of fatal crashes in Illinois.