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Although the Independence Day holidays have passed, fireworks are still a fun part of many holiday gatherings and following good safety rules when using them is just as important.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 11,000 people were injured in 2013 in fireworks-related accidents. For eight people, these injuries proved fatal. Experienced injury lawyers urge families to enjoy their fireworks safely by keeping a few easy safety tips in mind:
- Keep water handy. A hose or a bucket can help you put out a fire quickly if a firework gets out of control. For sparklers, set aside a spare metal bucket or a large glass jar filled with water so that burnt-out sparklers can be doused. Even a spent sparkler can be hot enough to burn.
- Watch children closely. Assign one adult to light fireworks while everyone else stays at a safe distance. A second adult should be responsible for supervising children, especially if kids are playing with sparklers. Keep a first aid kit and cell phone nearby in case of an emergency.
- Plan ahead. Make sure there are no burn advisories for your area. When you purchase fireworks, double-check to make sure you are only buying types that are legal in your area. Avoid fireworks in plain brown wrappers, which are designed for professional shows and are not safe for backyard use.
- Clean up thoroughly. Dispose of spent or “dud” fireworks by soaking them in water before placing them in the trash bin. Rake the fireworks area and wet it down with a hose or bucket to extinguish stray sparks.
If you or someone you care about has suffered a burn injury after a firework-related incident, please contact The Law Offices of Joseph H. Low IV for a free consultation about your legal rights.