Patterson and West Stanislaus Fire officials are urging the safe use of fireworks this Fourth of July with a list of safety dos and don’ts — and suggestions about where to find legal fireworks around town.

With no public display of professional fireworks happening in Patterson this Independence Day, many will give their own, smaller shows of bright, popping fireballs on neighborhood streets and in public areas. Those who are caught with illegal fireworks, however — described as dangerous because they explode and go up in the air — will face hefty fines and possible jail time if caught, according to the Stanislaus County Fireworks Safety Task Force.

Local groups will raise money by selling legal fireworks at 19 booths scattered around Patterson and surrounding areas. Patterson Fire Division Chief Steve Hall says the booths can remain open until noon July 6, though each group sets its own open hours.

The following tips can help revelers stay safe while celebrating the Fourth.

• Use only “safe-and-sane” fireworks approved by the state fire marshal.

• Always have an adult present when fireworks are lit. Parents and guardians are liable for injuries caused by children’s use of fireworks.

• Always read directions before lighting any firework.

• Use fireworks only outdoors, never inside a house or garage.

• Never light fireworks near dry grass or other flammable materials.

• Light fireworks one at a time.

• Keep a safe distance from bystanders.

• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.

• Always have a bucket of water or garden hose nearby when lighting fireworks.

• Fireworks should never be carried in pockets.

• Never attempt to re-light or “fix” fireworks if they go out or appear to be duds.

Fireworks vendors

• Patterson Redskins Football: 300 N. Second St.

• UPC Patterson: 310 N. Highway 33

• Royal Rangers: 15014 Rogers Road

• Knights of Columbus: 202 El Circulo

• Patterson Youth Soccer: 208 El Circulo

• Patterson Competitive Soccer Club: 1040 W Las Palmas Ave.

• Adelita De Leon scholarship fund: 1035 Sperry Road

• Ravens Youth Football: 242 Sperry Ave.

• Patterson Foursquare Church: Northwest corner of M and First streets

• Patterson Covenant Church: 435 W. Las Palmas Ave.

• Patterson High softball and volleyball teams: 860 W. Las Palmas Ave.

• Patterson High track team: 125 S. El Circulo Ave.

• New Hope Church of the Nazarene: 1001 Sperry Road

• Patterson Redskins cheer teams: 900 block of Sperry Road

Vernalis

• Finton Fireworks: 464 McCracken Road

Westley

• Apostolic New Life Church: 4437 Howard Road

• Saint Andrews Noble Order of Royal Scots: 4561 Howard Road

• Gustine Redskins: 4502 Ingram Creek Road

Crows Landing

• Ravens Youth Football: 22137 Highway 33