The American Pyrotechnics Association says Americans will spend approximately $1 billion on fireworks to celebrate the Fourth of July. 

The Consumer Product Safety Commission predicts thousands of people will be injured in firework-related incidents this month. 

In 2017, fireworks-related injuries left 8 people dead and approximately 12,9000 people injured.  

Which is why if you plan to use fireworks this Independence Day, you'll want to use extra caution. 

The experts at Phantom Fireworks who put on professional grade fireworks shows have a larger set-up than any backyard firework display- but safety is still one of their priorities. 

Technicians will make sure each charge is properly set and secured- which is just one of the many tips that they also had for consumers who plan to use fireworks this week. 

The Consumer Product Safety Commission says that some of the worst culprits of firework-related injuries can be the most unsuspecting. Sparklers are the #1 reported cause of firework injuries. 

Ann Marie Buerkle, the acting chairman of the CPSC, explained that a sparkler burns at approximately 2,000 degrees. 

"Of all the injuries we see, sparklers account for the highest rate of injuries," said Buerkle. 

But the experts at Phantom Fireworks say safety is their top priority, particularly when it comes to consumer fireworks. 

Dan Peart, the Director of Governmental Affairs for Phantom Fireworks says common sense can go a long way with consumer fireworks. 

Peart explained that Phantom Fireworks has set up an online coaching tool to give backyard pyrotechnicians the tips and advice necessary to stay safe. 

One of the first tips- have one person in control of the fireworks at all time. 

"Whoever is going to be shooting the fireworks that night, have that one designated shooter. Someone who's not consuming any alcohol" explained Peart. "Someone who understands where the shoot site is going to be understands where the product is laid out. You have one person in there lighting the fuse."

Peart also suggests having a water source nearby- a connected hose, a bucket of water, or an extinguisher. 

Firework users should also make sure to have proper safety gear- protective glasses, goggles, and gloves. 

Experts also say maintaining a safe distance from consumer fireworks is especially important. 

"If they're the ground-based fireworks, as long as you're back about 30 feet you shouldn't have any problems with noises or anything being frightening," said Peart. "If you're using the aerial fireworks we recommend that you're going to want to have about 150 feet between where the fireworks are and where the crowds are."