Fireworks are synonymous with momentous celebrations. From hand-held sparklers at weddings to extravagant displays at Fourth of July shows, fireworks should be a fun activity to enjoy and witness with friends and family. But, they may turn dangerous without proper precautions.
At MHM, we want you to be alert and aware so you can enjoy each celebration safely. Let’s take a look at some of the leading fireworks injuries and our team’s advice on how to safely enjoy them as they light up the night sky.
When Moments of Fun Lead to Fireworks Injuries
While a majority of fireworks injuries occur during the summer months, they can happen at any time of the year. Fireworks activate with quick bursts of heat as a result of a chemical reaction from a mixture of minerals and gunpowder — producing colorful explosions. If safety measures are not practiced before lighting a firework, they may cause serious burns, loss of limbs or fingers, hearing impairments or even death.
Fireworks are not free from error. At times, they can be produced with defects that cause serious harm to bystanders, trained professionals or loved ones. Common product defects that may result in fireworks injuries are:
- Improper warning labels;
- Unwarranted explosions;
- Issue with powder loading; or
- Unpredictable firework paths.
Firework manufacturers have a duty to produce products with care to avoid fireworks injuries. If they breach the duty of care, there may be grounds for a defective product lawsuit. If you or a loved one is injured by a defective firework, be sure to seek necessary medical attention, keep the firework that harmed you and medical bills as evidence and make note of potential witnesses to help build your case.
Our Tips to Celebrate Safely
Before setting off fireworks or attending a professional show, take note of these safety tips to share with your friend and family and avoid the potential for fireworks injuries.
- Keep fireworks, sparklers and other explosives away from young children.
- Review your area’s firework rules and regulations.
- Do not light fireworks while intoxicated.
- Keep a bucket of water handy to diffuse used fireworks.
- Avoid holding a lit firework in your hands.
- Do not light a firework indoors.
- Keep spectators at a distance of 35 feet away for ground fireworks and 150 feet away for aerial fireworks.
- Light one firework at a time to reduce the risk of fireworks injuries.
- Do not light or attempt to relight malfunctioning fireworks.
- Avoid pointing fireworks at people, houses or motor vehicles.
- Avoid lighting fireworks if the packaging is not intact.
- Read the instructions provided for how to safely light the fireworks.
Look to MHM When the Unexpected Strikes
Fireworks are a fun way to celebrate special occasions, but one wrong move could result in a dangerous situation. By practicing our safety tips, following the rules of firework display shows and lighting fireworks safely in law-abiding areas, we can enjoy one of life’s simple joys.
If you or a loved one was injured due to fireworks, the attorneys at MHM are standing by to help determine the nature of your case and guide you forward to rightful compensation.