Fireworks are the premier event of Fourth of July celebrations all over Colorado, and for many Coloradoans, they’re also a family tradition. However, fireworks injuries can cause serious harm or even death. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), over 9,600 people suffered injuries that required emergency room care in 2011 after failing to use fireworks carefully or using defective fireworks.
If you’re injured by fireworks this holiday season, the skilled Colorado Springs burn injury lawyers at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. can help you defend your rights. You can help reduce your risk of injury and the risk of injuring those you love by following a few safety tips. Here are six ways to help reduce the risk of fireworks injuries this Fourth of July:
- Designate a specific area for fireworks to be lit. Keep all spectators away from this area, and put one adult in charge of lighting fireworks and disposing of used fireworks.
- Place a bucket of water, a running hose, or a fire extinguisher within easy reach of the person in charge of lighting the fireworks.
- Check the fire risk for your area. If the weather has been dry or the risk of setting a wildfire is high, skip backyard fireworks in favor of a professional show.
- Never allow children to light fireworks. If children are using sparklers, supervise them carefully to avoid burns.
- Make sure the fireworks you choose are legal in your area.
- Use only fireworks marked for consumer, at-home use. Fireworks in plain brown wrappers are usually for professional use and may cause serious injuries if lit at home.