Celebrate Safely: What Goes Up Must Come Down

A bullet fired into the air does not disappear. It comes back down somewhere — onto a roof, a car, a backyard or a person — and it can cause serious injury or death. Celebratory gunfire is dangerous, irresponsible and illegal in many places. Responsible gun owners never do it, and they speak up when others consider it.

Every one of the universal safety rules applies: be sure of your target and what is beyond it. When firing into the sky, you have no target and no idea what is beyond it. There is no safe way to do it.

Holidays bring other risks as well. Alcohol and firearms never mix — if you are drinking, firearms stay locked away, full stop. With guests in the house, double-check that every firearm is secured and inaccessible to children and visitors.

Fireworks deserve respect of their own. Follow local laws, which vary widely, and the manufacturer's instructions. Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby, light one device at a time, never relight a dud, and keep children at a safe distance. Many families choose public displays run by professionals, which are both safer and more spectacular.

Pets and some veterans find fireworks and loud reports stressful. A little consideration — a heads-up to neighbors, a quiet room for a nervous dog — is part of celebrating well.