As we prepare to celebrate this July 4th, families and friends are no doubt planning events. Backyard barbecues, baseball games, and more help us enjoy the birth of this great country. Many people will also celebrate Independence Day with fireworks. If your family plans on shooting off fireworks, it is important to do so safely. As a Portland personal injury attorney, fireworks can be fun but also have the potential to cause harm. Read about some basic steps to help prevent your chance of dealing with a firework personal injury claim. If you have been injured by fireworks we can help with a free consultation to discuss your firework personal injury lawsuit.
First, it should be noted that Portland residents should use only fireworks that are legal. Illegal fireworks are anything that explodes, flies, or travels more than six feet into the air. There is also a burn ban issued, but it does not include legal fireworks. Still, families should be careful about shooting off fireworks in especially dry areas or areas that could be prone to fires.
When shooting off fireworks, make sure that they are aimed safely away from any people, trees, homes, power lines, or any other obstructions. Children should also not be allowed to light fireworks except under close parental supervision. People also need to be careful not to stand directly over fireworks when lighting then, lest a fuse ignite quickly and cause a firework to discharge. Also, keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher handy just in case an errant spark or firework causes a fire. Many firework injuries are not from fireworks themselves, but from the fires they cause.
In 2013, more than 11,000 people were injured by fireworks around the 4th of July with eight deaths reported. Many of these injuries were caused by people who were using fireworks while intoxicated. Therefore if you plan on drinking to celebrate, it may be best to go to a professional show (with a designated driver, of course) or let a sober family member or friend run the display.
At Johnson Law, we want everyone to have a safe, fun holiday. By taking just simple precautions, people can celebrate Independence Day while avoiding injuries.
