888-843-8326 To prevent fireworks injuries this Fourth of July, handle fireworks carefully, keep spectators at a safe distance, and follow local laws. While firework displays are a highlight for many people celebrating Independence Day, they can pose several risks, which is why understanding the dangers involved and how to avoid them is so important.
As one of the most anticipated holidays in the U.S. social calendar, the Fourth of July is all about having fun with your friends and family. However, the mishandling of fireworks causes many people to suffer burns and other injuries that could have been prevented had the proper procedures been followed.
If you or your loved one has been injured at a fireworks display due to another person’s negligence, Raleigh personal injury lawyers can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of seeking compensation.
Safety Tips on How to Prevent Fireworks Injuries This Fourth of July
The Fourth of July is a day for festivities and fun. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take firework safety seriously. Here are some tips on how to protect yourself and others during the holiday period:
Attend Public Displays
Public firework displays that have been organized by trained professionals are often a lot safer than setting off fireworks at home. These professionals have gone through rigorous safety training and have carefully planned every part of the event with the aim of reducing risks.
By attending a public display, you can enjoy the festivities without having to worry as much about any potential dangers.
Only Use Legal Fireworks
If you’re thinking of putting on your own display at home, you should only ever buy products that have been approved as permissible consumer fireworks under North Carolina law. This usually includes things like sparklers and ground-based fountain fireworks.
Fireworks that leave the ground or explode, such as bottle rockets, firecrackers, and Roman candles, are not permitted for personal use. Check the product information before you make your purchase, stick to the law, and you should be good to go.
Keep Children and Pets Away From Fireworks
Children should not handle any fireworks and should be kept at a safe distance at all times. Even sparklers can be dangerous and unpredictable, reaching higher temperatures than you might expect, so adult supervision is required. You should also keep all pets indoors, where they will be safe and secure.
Keep Safety Equipment Close
Preparation is a necessity for preventing fireworks injuries this Fourth of July. Here’s a list of some of the items you should keep nearby before lighting your fireworks:
- A bucket of water or a garden hose
- A fire extinguisher
- Eye protection
- Gloves
- A first-aid kit
The bucket of water can be used to put out fires or for submerging sparklers and fireworks after use. You should also avoid loose-fitting clothing that might easily catch on objects or get too close to sparks and flames as you move.
Never Relight Failed Fireworks
If you light a firework and nothing happens, never try to relight it or pick it up. Malfunctioning fireworks can be extremely dangerous. Instead, you should wait at least 30 minutes and then submerge it in water if possible.
Practice Proper Handling
Always light fireworks one at a time and immediately step away. Then make sure you and any spectators are a safe distance away as you watch the display unfold. Once the fireworks are finished and you’ve submerged them in water, you should then dispose of them in a metal trash container.
Never Use Fireworks While Impaired
Because the Fourth of July is a day for celebration, there’s often alcohol involved. But you should never handle fireworks while under the influence. This leaves more room for error, increasing the potential for accidents and injuries to occur.
For a free legal consultation, call 888-843-8326
What to Do if You are Injured by Fireworks
According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, thousands of people are injured every year because of fireworks. If you find yourself in this situation, here’s what you should do:
- Seek medical attention immediately: Even if the burn seems minor in the moment, it can evolve into something more drastic if it goes untreated. So, you should have your injury seen by a medical professional as soon as possible.
- Apply basic first aid: Run burns under cool water for at least 10 – 20 minutes as you wait for medical assistance.
- Document what happened: If possible, make a note of what happened and take pictures of the scene as well as your injury. Speak to witnesses and take down their information, too, as this could help you later.
- Speak to a personal injury lawyer: There are lots of reasons fireworks injuries happen, and if it wasn’t your fault, you may be able to seek compensation. Faulty products and unsafe conditions are often seen as forms of negligence and may mean you have a claim on your hands.
Protecting yourself and others is the most important thing you can do in this situation, and acting quickly will give you a better chance of recovery.
How the CR Legal Team Can Help With Your Fireworks Injury Claim
Looking for advice on how to prevent fireworks injuries this Fourth of July is a good way to ensure your safety and the safety of others. But accidents can still happen. If you find yourself dealing with a fireworks-related injury that was caused by someone else’s negligence, CR Legal Team can help.
Our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to making sure our clients receive physical, financial, and emotional support throughout the legal process. With over 35 years in the business and a wealth of experience in handling serious accidents, our Legal Team will Stand Up For You®.
Contact us today to book a free case evaluation and learn more about your rights.
