Each Independence Day, fireworks injuries are a serious concern for doctors and emergency rooms. Each year, people are several injured or even killed due to improper use of fireworks. Unfortunately, children and minors are more likely to be affected by these types of injuries.
While fun, fireworks can cause eye injuries, burns, facial injuries, hand and arm injuries, and even fatalities. The greatest risk occurs when people stand too close to fireworks that are detonating. There are, however, several ways you can stay safe:
1) Rely on professionals.
Rather than buying your own fireworks for July 4, attend an event with fireworks organized by professionals. The display will be more professional and safer, as long as you stand back and use common sense to stay safe in the crowd.
2) If you do set up your own, follow the right protocol.
If you do want your own fireworks, check local rules first. Always buy from a trusted local dealer and not online. Online products may not have the same safety standards as local products. In addition, they may be illegal. In Florida, it is only safe to use what are known as sparklers – smaller fireworks listed on the fire marshal’s website.
Always follow all instructions when using fireworks and never mix alcohol with fireworks. Use caution when setting them off; even the smaller fireworks legal in Florida can cause burns and serious injuries.
3) Store fireworks safely.
If you have extra fireworks or are storing them for July 4, keep them in a locked cabinet where your children cannot access them. Make sure the fireworks are not stored anywhere near heat or open flame.
4) Talk to your children about fireworks safety.
Even if you decide to visit a professional fireworks show or store your own fireworks safely, keep in mind that your children and their friends may be able to access fireworks from a number of sources. Some residents can buy illegal fireworks online and your children’s friends may have households with different rules about fireworks safety.
This is a good time of year to review the dangers of fireworks and to discuss what your children can do if they notice other children their age playing with fireworks. Don’t just lecture your children about these topics; ask them to come up with their own solutions for what they can do if they find themselves faced with friends who have fireworks they want to set off. If your children come up with their own solutions in a discussion with you, they are more likely to remember and follow through with these options.
If you or anyone in your family has been injured by defective fireworks or an unsafe fireworks show, contact Flaxman Law Group to discuss your legal options. You may have a legal claim and our legal team can guide you with legal advice. Your initial consultation with us is always free and confidential so contact us today if you have been injured.