A study done by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission shows that fireworks were involved in an estimated 9,100 injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments last year. Children under the age of 15 accounted for 36 percent of the injuries. The parts of the body most often injured are hands and fingers, legs, eyes, face and ears. Forty-four percent of the emergency room visits were burns.
“Minors really have no business playing with fireworks, but if they are setting off fireworks there should always be adult supervision,” Brad Parker says. “Also…while the combination of drinking alcohol and blowing things up is commonplace, you should leave the fireworks for the sober adults.”
Before lighting the fuse, review these 10 tips for staying safe this New Year’s Eve.
- It may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised…only use fireworks outdoors.
- Never lean over lit fireworks. Back up to a safe distance right after lighting the fuse.
- Again, it may seem obvious: Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
- If you find unexploded fireworks, leave them alone and don’t try to relight or handle them. Soak them with water and throw them away.
- Keep a hose or bucket of water nearby.
- Light fireworks one at a time and then move away quickly.
- Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
- After fireworks are done burning, douse with plenty of water before throwing them away to prevent a trash fire.
- Young people should be closely supervised when using fireworks.
- Parents should not allow really young children to handle or use fireworks.
Check out this list of the most dangerous fireworks, according to the National Fire Protection Association.
Selling, possessing or setting off fireworks in Fort Worth is a Class C misdemeanor, carrying a fine of up to $2,000. Mansfield, Burleson and Crowley also prohibit fireworks within 5,000 of their respective city limits. Arlington prohibits fireworks within 2,000 feet of city limits.
While some of these fireworks safety tips seem obvious, the injuries were incredibly high last year due to the misuse or irresponsible use of fireworks. Stay safe and out of the emergency room this New Year’s Eve!
Have You Been Injured In A Texas Accident?
If you’ve been injured you need to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Bedford, Texas office directly at 817.440.3888 to schedule your free, no obligation consultation. We help personal injury clients throughout Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington as well as all areas of Texas.
At Parker Law Firm, our experienced personal injury lawyers believe people matter. We are committed to our clients, not case numbers, and we believe in the power of the civil justice system. With years spent both representing accident victims and participating in the state legislative process, our founder, Brad Parker, has developed a deep understanding of the law and gained unique experience that helps him get results for his clients.
