Tips to Decrease Firework Injury This Fourth of July

By Mike Glisson | June 12, 2018

Fireworks can be a fun and beautiful way to celebrate during the summer months. However if you don’t take caution they can become extremely dangerous.

According to the National Fire Protection Association , “In 2017, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 12,900 people for fireworks related injuries; 54% of those injuries were to the extremities and 36% were to the head. Children younger than 15 years of age accounted for more than one-third (36%) of the estimated 2017 injuries.”

Fireworks don’t only cause direct injury, they are also infamous for starting fires. In fact, “Fireworks start an average of 18,500 fires per year, including 1,300 structure fires, 300 vehicle fires, and 16,900 outside and other fires. These fires caused an average of three deaths, 40 civilian injuries, and an average of $43 million in direct property damage.”

The National Council on firework safety published some safety tips to ensure firework fun without injury!

  • “Obey all local laws regarding the use of fireworks
  • A responsible adult SHOULD supervise all firework activities.  Never give fireworks to children.
  • Alcohol and fireworks do not mix.
  • Wear safety glasses when shooting fireworks.
  • Light one firework at a time and then quickly move away.
  • Use fireworks OUTDOORS in a clear area; away from buildings and vehicles.
  • Never relight a “dud” firework.  Wait 20 minutes and then soak it in a bucket of water.
  • Always have a bucket of water and charged water hose nearby.
  • Never carry fireworks in your POCKET or shoot them into METAL or GLASS containers.
  • Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
  • Dispose of spent fireworks by wetting them down and place in a metal trash can away from any building or combustible materials until the next day.
  • FAA regulations PROHIBIT the possession and transportation of fireworks in your checked baggage or carry-on luggage.
  • Report illegal explosives, like M-80s and quarter sticks, to the fire or police department.”

Contact a personal injury lawyer to help with Firework injury. Glisson Law has handled multiple cases involving firework injury and can help you too. Contact us at 618.462.1077. for a free consultation today.

Related: Drinking and Car Accidents

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