With parades, cookouts and fireworks shows, the Fourth of July should be a time of celebration. Unfortunately, according to the National Fire Protection Association, hospital emergency rooms treated close to 9,000 people for fireworks-related injuries in 2012. Fireworks can be incredibly dangerous if you do not use the proper precautions when launching them.
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a fireworks accident because of someone else’s negligence, we may be able to help. At Jaroslawicz & Jaros, PLLC, we have been handling personal-injury claims since 1980 and have recovered more than $1 billion in damages for our clients. Call our office today at 212.227.2780 to arrange an initial consultation with a personal-injury attorney in New York City, and read on for five safety tips regarding fireworks:
- Stick to Legal Fireworks
The United States banned certain types of fireworks in 1966 because of the extensive injuries they caused; however, consumers can still purchase them at various distributors. Be sure that you only purchase legal fireworks by reading the box thoroughly, as well as any labels that might be on it. According to KidsHealth, illegal fireworks generally do not have labels, and those are the ones you want to avoid.
- Take It Outside
Most people already know not to set off fireworks indoors, but setting them off inside still causes injuries every single year. When setting off fireworks for your family and friends, do it outside, and always follow the instructions or warning labels on the packaging.
- Have Water Handy
If you’re setting off fireworks in your backyard, be sure that it is large enough to do so, and keep the hose handy in case anything goes wrong. If your family is setting off fireworks in an area that does not have a hose readily available, make sure you have buckets of water handy just in case you need to douse any stray sparks.
- Wear Eye Protection
If you are setting off fireworks for the whole family, be sure that everyone remains far enough away that they can enjoy the show without being in any imminent danger. For those actually doing the lighting, eye protection is crucial. Fireworks can backfire or even shoot in the wrong direction, and protecting your eyes is a must.
- Never Relight a Dud
Though a massive fireworks show might sound cool, you should leave that to the professionals. Never set off more than one firework at a time, and never relight a dud. If you have children, be sure that they understand just how dangerous fireworks can be. You should never let your kids play with fireworks, and you should monitor them closely and exercise caution if you give them sparklers. If you or a loved one is suffering from injuries sustained in a fireworks accident that resulted from someone else’s reckless or negligent behavior, we can help. Our firm has been representing the injured for more than 30 years. Call us today at 212.227.2780 to arrange a free consultation with a personal-injury lawyer in New York
