As the Independence Day holiday gets closer, here are some safe ways to have a blast.

If you want to see big fireworks, check out a public display like the municipal fireworks show and Austin Symphony concert at Circuit of the Americas

Get ideas for fun things to do on the holiday from Austin 360, the Austin American-Statesman, the Austin Visitor Center, do512 and CultureMap Austin.

For a really big bang, check out the Austin Symphony concert and fireworks display at 8:30 p.m. on Friday. Because Auditorium Shores is undergoing renovations, this year’s celebration will be held right here in Southeast Austin — at the Austin360 Amphitheater at Circuit of the Americas. Free parking opens in Lot F at 3 p.m., and fireworks will begin at about 9:30 p.m. The concert will be simulcast on Majic 95.5 FM.

Keep in mind that there are strict limits on fireworks inside the city limits and in Travis County parks. Even though we had a rainy June, our region is experiencing a serious long-term drought, increasing the risk of fire from fireworks. You can check our current burn ban status at the Travis County Fire Marshal website, and keep an eye on our drought status at the U.S. Drought Monitor.

If you do use fireworks at home, please follow these fireworks safety tips and use only the varieties allowed within the city limits without a permit. Here’s a list from the Austin Fire Department.

• Snake, glowworm: Pressed pyrotechnic pellet that produces a large, snakelike ash upon burning. May not contain mercuric thiocyanate.
• Smoke device:  Pyrotechnic tube or sphere that, upon ignition, produces white or colored smoke.
• Wire sparkler: Wire coated with pyrotechnic composition that produces  a shower of sparks upon ignition. May not contain magnesium.
• Trick noisemakers: Including party poppers, booby traps, snappers, trick matches, cigarette loads and auto burglar alarms.

Remember, always have water on hand when using fireworks, and soak spent fireworks before discarding them in a garbage can. Get more tips for preventing fires and injuries from the National Council on Fireworks Safety.

To report a nonemergency fireworks violation, please call 311. Call 911 to report emergencies such as fires and crimes.

Have a happy and safe Independence Day!