Summer is in full swing and the 4th of July will be here before we know it. Whether you celebrate with a BBQ, pool party, or a fireworks show, it’s important to observe certain safety precautions. Fireworks are an Independence Day staple, but with their beauty comes some danger. Fireworks can cause serious injuries, and danger to personal safety and property and they are a fire hazard. Each year, it’s estimated that thousands are injured, and tens of thousands of fires are started around this time. According to the NFPA, U.S. emergency rooms see over 12,000 patients for firework-related injuries in the days leading up to July 4th. Most of these cases are children and teens. While these statistics may sound scary, they are easily preventable. If you’re wondering how to use fireworks safely, the personal injury lawyers at Spector Injury & Accident Lawyers are sharing 12 firework safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe this holiday.
COMMON INJURIES FROM FIREWORKS
Most people do not know how to use fireworks safely, resulting in serious injuries and many hospital visits. Typical injuries can be caused by sparklers, firecrackers, rockets and so much more. Some of the most common injuries that can be sustained from fireworks include:
- First, second and third-degree burns
- Eye injuries
- Loss of appendages
- Wounds from flying debris
TIPS TO AVOID FIREWORK INJURIES
One of the safest ways to enjoy the 4th of July sparkles is by leaving the firework show to the pros, but if you must indulge in your own display, safe fireworks at home can be mastered when you follow a few simple firework safety tips:
- Always check with your city or township for laws and regulations
- Avoid trying to make your own fireworks
- Before you begin, make sure you have a hose or a bucket of water readily available
- Only adults should light fireworks. Teens above 16 years of age should be supervised by an adult
- Read all safety and warning labels before you begin
- Light fireworks on even pavement in an open area away from anything flammable
- Do not light more than one firework at a time
- Do not pick up a firework that hasn’t gone off. Instead, let it sit for 20 minutes and then soak it in water
- Never point a firework at yourself or someone else
- Avoid carrying fireworks in your pocket
- Wear safety goggles
- Soak all used fireworks in a bucket of water before disposing
WHY CALL SPECTOR INJURY & ACCIDENT LAWYERS IF YOU’RE INJURED?
Firework injuries can happen to anyone and most of the time, they are the direct result of negligence by someone who makes, sells, or uses them. Practicing the use of safe fireworks at home can be one way to prevent injury, but if the unthinkable happens during a 4th of July celebration and you or a loved one is injured, know who to call. Our personal injury lawyers at Spector Injury & Accident Lawyers can ensure you get the justice you deserve with proper representation so you can receive the maximum compensation.
