Stay Safe this Fourth of July – Fireworks Safety
Did you know that each 4th of July, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using fireworks. Many receive serious burn and eye injuries.
According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) in 2012, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,700 people for fireworks related injuries; 55% of 2012 emergency room fireworks-related injuries were to the extremities and 31% were to the head. Those most at risk are those between the ages of 15-24, followed by children under the age of 10.
The attorneys at Murray & Guari recommend that if you want to see fireworks with your family, to attend a public show put on by experts. If you should choose to purchase your own fireworks, then below, we provide some fireworks safety tips:
- Always have an adult supervise fireworks activities
- Always purchase fireworks from a reliable source
- Always read and follow label directions. Use fireworks only as intended.
- Obey local laws. Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them
- Only use fireworks outdoors and always have water handy
- Keep spectators at a safe distance
- Never throw or point fireworks at other people
- Kids should never play with fireworks. Even sparklers can be dangerous if used incorrectly
- Dispose of fireworks properly by soaking
For a complete list of the approved Florida fireworks, we invite you to click here.