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First the boom, then the fizzle as brightly colored sparkles light up the night sky each Fourth of July.

But Islanders shouldn’t rush out in hopes of recreating a fireworks display in their own backyard, since the use of fireworks can quickly ruin a holiday. Fireworks, which are defined as anything that launches or explodes, are illegal to use in the state of Florida without a proper permit. And while the threat of jail may be enough to stop some people from using fireworks, local officials are hoping the danger factor will also keep people away.

"The concern of fire service personnel is that the people who shoot off professional shows are professionals," said Marco Island Fire Chief Mike Murphy. "(Amateurs) run a high risk of injury when they use them."

In 2006, fire and rescue agencies across the state were called out to 90 incidents where illegal fireworks had been used, according to Nina Banister, spokeswoman for the State Fire Marshall’s office.

While explosive fireworks, like the kind Islanders will see during Wednesday night’s show, are illegal to use or purchase, Banister said several hundred types of sparklers are legal in the state.

But just because something is legal, it doesn’t mean it’s safe, Murphy said.

According to a 2007 report published by the National Fire Prevention Association, nearly 11,000 people were treated in emergency rooms across the country for fireworks related injuries.

Of those injuries, about 95 percent of the injuries were related to fireworks that are permitted to be used.

"This is dangerous," said Marco fire marshal Ray Munyon. "People are injured every year."

Injuries can be as minor as a burn or as serious as a head injury, Munyon said.

"People are most at risk of a thermal injury because of the heat," he said. "Even after extinguishing it, (the sparkler) emits heat for several minutes."

Murphy said parents should pay close attention to their children, no matter the age, when allowing them to use sparklers.

"Parents should be extremely concerned when they allow their children to play with them," he said. "You need to protect yourself, (you) wouldn’t be welding without safety glasses."

According to the 2007 NFPA report, 30 percent of injuries sustained by fireworks were to the hand or finger, while 24 percent were to the eyes.

No matter the severity of an injury, Murphy said Islanders should call 911.

"No matter what, it is always better be safe," he said. "Our motto is to dial 911, not drive. That’s what we’re here for."

Marco Island Fireworks

The annual fireworks show begins at 9 p.m. from a barge about 800 feet offshore in the area north of the Marco Island Marriott Beach Resort in the vicinity of the Royal Seafarer. The show consists of 5,026 shells and will last between 20 and 25 minutes. Boaters must remain at least 800 feet away from the barge in all directions. In the event of a rain delay the shoot will take place July 5.

Saftey tips

If you’re going to be using legal fireworks this week, here are some tips for ensuring the safety of you and your family:

-- Always read and follow label directions.

-- Have an adult present.

-- Buy from reliable sellers.

-- Use outdoors only.

-- Always have water handy (a garden hose and a bucket).

-- Never experiment or make your own fireworks.

-- Light only one fireworks at a time.

-- Never re-light a "dud" fireworks (wait 15 to 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water).

-- Never give fireworks to small children.

-- If necessary, store fireworks in a cool, dry place.

-- Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking them in water and then disposing of them in your trash can.

-- Never throw or point fireworks at other people.

-- Never carry fireworks in your pocket.

-- Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers.

-- The shooter should always wear eye protection and never have any part of the body over the fireworks.

-- Stay away from illegal explosives.

— Source: National Council on Fireworks Safety