BREWER, Maine — Thursday is Independence Day. While it's a time for fanfare and celebration, it also raises some safety concerns as more travelers are expected to be on the roads and fireworks displays by both amateurs and professionals will be setting off across the country.

If you are one of the many people who like to light up the sky with fireworks, the Brewer Fire Department has tips for staying safe when using these fireworks.

“Make sure those around you and yourself are safe, be aware of what you are doing and use the fireworks as intended and according to the manufacturer’s information,” said Deputy Fire Chief Erik Tourtillotte.

Tourtillotte said it's important to check wind direction and find out how dry or humid the air is before setting off fireworks. Then launch from a location without nearby vegetation, have water ready and never try to relight a firework that didn't work the first time, he advised.

If you plan to purchase fireworks, be sure to check the laws in your city or municipality.

“They might be stricter than the regulations issued by the state, so to make sure you don't get in trouble or violate the regulations, you should educate yourself on the laws and regulations,” Tourtillotte said.

You should also be aware of heavy traffic during this holiday week.

Pat Moody of AAA Northern New England said the agency expects 71 million Americans nationwide to travel 50 miles or more this week – a record high, representing a 5 percent increase from last year.

“When there is more congestion on our roads, the risk and likelihood of being involved in an accident also increases,” Moody said.

Moody said he expected Wednesday to be the busiest travel day and recommended travelers set off before noon to avoid the afternoon rush between about 2 and 7 p.m.

According to Moody, planning ahead can make your trip safer.

“Give yourself enough time to get to your destination, keep enough distance from the car you are driving behind and, of course, don’t drive while distracted or drunk,” he said.

David Saquet is an emergency room physician at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center. He said he sees an increase in the number of people seeking medical attention for drunken driving offenses during the holidays.

“Do not drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, no matter what you are driving, be it a bicycle, a motorcycle, an ATV or a car,” Saquet said.

He also observes an increase in heat-related emergencies.

“Always wear sunscreen, stay cool, drink plenty of water and seek shade,” advises Saquet.

Tourtillotte said he wants people to go out and enjoy the holiday, but to celebrate responsibly by being prepared and not setting off fireworks or operating a vehicle while impaired.