Launching fireworks on Independence Day is a well-celebrated American tradition. As a spectator, it may not cross your mind that facilitating a fireworks display may be dangerous. Around 5,600 fireworks-related injuries sent victims to the emergency room in 2018. The most prominent injuries seen in firework accidents are burns and severe eye injuries. Firework-related injuries are preventable if they are used with caution.
If you were substantially injured due to someone’s negligence while handling fireworks this Independence Day, speak to a seasoned personal injury lawyer for an assessment of your case. We help you recover losses related to your firework-related accident so you can focus on recovery.
8 Tips on How to Stay Safe Around Fireworks This Independence Day
Exercising caution while deploying fireworks this Independence Day may be able to prevent injuries associated with firework-related accidents. In some cases, firework injuries are mild and can be treated at home, but when mishaps occur, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Severe injuries such as corneal abrasions, corneal detachment, and blindness may have lifelong effects and negatively impact your day-to-day life.
1. Follow Firework Laws
The Federal Hazardous Substances Act outlaws the sale of dangerous fireworks, such as reloadable mortar shells, cherry bombs, aerial bombs, M-80 salutes, and larger types of fireworks. Some states and local governments even ban the use of consumer fireworks.
For instance, in Salt Lake City, the use of the following fireworks is prohibited:
- Cherry bombs
- Roman candles
- Skyrockets
- Bottle rockets
- Single-shot mortars
- M-80’s
- Firecrackers
- Any non-cake aerial device
In addition to the use of these fireworks being prohibited, it is also illegal to set off fireworks within the Salt Lake City Limits and can only be discharged in approved areas. In order to stay safe this Independence Day, follow all rules and regulations to ensure your safety.
2. Keep Water Nearby
If you find that a firework is malfunctioning, or you want to prevent the risk of a fire, soak your damaged and used fireworks in water to prevent any accidents or fires. If you are facilitating the firework display, having a hose or water bucket nearby may help with accidental burn injuries or eye injuries.
3. Follow Firework Lighting Procedure
The safest way to light a firework is with a punk, rather than a match or lighter. A match increases the chance of an accident because it’s harder to control, susceptible to the wind, and puts you in the line of danger.
4. Avoid Any Failed Fireworks
Sometimes fireworks have a delayed reaction and can cause serious injury when you handle them before they go off. The best way to deal with failed fireworks is to soak them in water and move on to the next one.
5. Set Off Fireworks in a Clear Area
To avoid any fires from erupting, ensure you are taking precautions by lighting them in a clear area away from houses, trees, dry foliage, or anything else that may be flammable.
6. Avoid Leaning Over a Firework When Attempting to Light It
A punk allows you to light a firework at a safe distance. Avoid leaning over a firework fuse to avoid injury. Wearing fitted clothing and close-toed shoes is another safety measure that may help you avoid any burn injuries,
7. Always Supervise Children Lighting Fireworks
Contrary to popular belief, sparklers are not safe for children to play with, as they burn at around 2,000 degrees. Children 10-14 years old had the highest estimated rate of emergency room visits due to firework-related injury in 2018. Children should always be supervised when handling fireworks.
8. Wear Eye Protection
Wearing eye protection when lighting fireworks or watching fireworks can aid in protecting your eyes from burns, blunt trauma, and chemical exposure.
What to Do in Cases of Firework Injuries
If you have experienced a firework-related injury, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention. Avoid taking any medications or applying any ointments to burns while you wait for assistance. In the event of an eye injury, it is important to avoid rubbing, rinsing, or applying pressure to your eyes. If an object is stuck in your eye, do not remove it, as it can cause more damage when not expertly treated.
Speak With a Knowledgeable Personal Injury Lawyer at Feller & Wendt
Firework displays can be a wonderful experience to behold, but in order to avoid injury, it is best to exercise extreme caution. If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence while facilitating a firework show or as a spectator, speak to an experienced personal injury lawyer at Feller & Wendt for an assessment of your case.
At Feller & Wendt, we are proud to offer over 70 years of combined experience fighting for the justice our clients deserve in the cases of personal injury. If you were severely injured due to someone’s negligence while handling fireworks this Independence Day, you may be able to obtain fair compensation for losses associated with your injuries, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional damages. Call (801) 499-5060 for a no-cost consultation of your case, or fill out our contact form.
