The Basics of Fireworks Safety

Summer is the time of year for fireworks. Maybe it is a holiday weekend, a small get-together, a birthday, or another type of celebration. While fireworks are beautiful to watch, they also come with risks.

Follow these tips to ensure you stay safe when watching fireworks.

Keep a Safe Distance

Make sure you are far away from the fireworks when they are lit. If they are to malfunction or head in an unexpected direction, you want to make sure you aren’t in harm’s way. To be extra safe, plan to stay about 100 feet away from the fireworks.

Light One at a Time

Though you may want to see how big of a display you can create, leave that to the professionals. When using fireworks at home, light only one device at a time.

Also:

• Never attempt to re-light a malfunctioning firework.
• Never light them inside.
• Never light them in a container.

Watch the Children

Children aren’t aware of the potential dangers of fireworks. Keep your eyes on the kids to ensure they don’t get too close to the explosion and end up injured.

Keep Water Nearby

Make sure that you have a hose and/or bucket of water handy in case the fireworks start a larger fire. It is also important to remember to soak both used and unused fireworks in water for multiple hours prior to discarding them.

Handle Sparklers Carefully

Because sparklers are handheld, many people may believe they are significantly safer. While it’s true they won’t cause a massive explosion, they are still a large risk for burn injuries because they are so close to the skin.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, over 25% of all fireworks-related emergency room visits are due to sparklers.

If you choose to use sparklers, pay close attention to them as they burn.

Injured in an Accident? Contact Us Today

Even if you take all these safety precautions, others may not. If you have been injured by malfunctioning fireworks, or due to the negligence of the individual lighting the fireworks, you have the right to seek compensation. Contact Michles & Booth, P.A. today to go over your case with one of our Miami injury lawyers.

Call 850-438-4848 to schedule a free consultation!