 Firework Safety Vital to Prevent Injuries, says Texas Fireworks Lawyer
Parades, cookouts and fireworks help us celebrate the summer season, especially our nation’s birthday on the Fourth of July. However, fireworks can turn a joyful celebration into a painful memory when they injure a child or adult. All fireworks are hazardous and can cause injury. Even the legal consumer fireworks that comply with the U. S. Consumer Product Safety Commission can harm.
Many firecrackers are illegal to purchase. Professional display fireworks never should be used or handled by consumers due to the serious injuries and deaths that can occur. Despite the risks, some still acquire them. They are risking their lives and the lives of others when they do so.
Injuries from fireworks have dramatically increased throughout the decade. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, 70-75% of injuries occur during a 30-day period surrounding July 4, seven out of 100 persons injured require hospitalization and boys between the ages of 10 and 14 have the highest rates of injury. Common injuries from fireworks are to the hands (34%), face (12%) and eyes (17%).
In 2007 alone the CPSC reported 11 deaths associated with fireworks. Today 10 states ban all consumer fireworks, and six states allow only sparklers or other novelties. Laws regulating the sale of fireworks directly affect the occurrence of fireworks-related injuries.
Fireworks Safety
To help consumers use fireworks more safely, the CPSC offers these recommendations:
· do not allow young children to play with fireworks under any circumstances
· older children only should be permitted to use fireworks under close adult supervision
· keep a bucket of water near for emergencies and to pour on fireworks that don’t ignite
· do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks
· be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks
· never ignite fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container
· keep unused fireworks away from firing areas
· store fireworks in a dry, cool place
· observe local fireworks laws
· never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting
· don’t experiment with homemade fireworks
Fireworks Damage
Fifty-seven percent of fires caused by fireworks occur in July, and nearly 20% occur on July 4. Usually burning in open fields and vacant lots, these fires can cause extreme damage. But National Fire Incident Reporting System data reflects that other types of fires from firework accidents have even higher property loss. Fireworks fires cause approximately $15 million in property loss, injure 50 and kill 15 annually. Materials ignited by fireworks include grass, leaves, straw and rubbish.
If you or a loved one has suffered a fireworks injury due to another’s negligence, a Jim S. Adler & Associates' Texas fireworks lawyer will consider your case. |
