You work hard every day, so when a holiday like the Fourth of July rolls around, you are perhaps a little more than ready to enjoy your time off. Between the summertime weather, delicious-smelling cookouts, and the colorful array of exploding fireworks in the sky, the Fourth of July is a good time indeed. However, it is important that you ensure you take all the necessary safety precautions before inviting everyone over to celebrate. If you are in charge of the neighborhood fireworks show this year, here are some questions you may have regarding firework safety:
What can I do to prepare for the festivities?
Before you start the show, there are several things you must keep in mind. While fireworks are a good time for all, it is important you keep it that way. Since you are the one in charge of the fireworks this year, it is your responsibility to ensure that everyone has a safe (and fun) day. Here are some things you can do to prepare:
- First, make sure fireworks are legal in your area
- Do not buy any fireworks that come in brown paper–these are professional-grade fireworks and may seriously injure someone if you are not an expert
- Keep a garden hose or fire extinguisher nearby–this is your first line of defense in the event of an accidental fire
- Ensure there is at least one responsible adult present at all times
- Never let children handle fireworks
- Never carry fireworks in your pocket
- Keep your pets inside–the loud noise and bright colors disturb them and may prompt them to act abnormally
How do I light fireworks safely?
Once you are confident all safety measures have been taken, you must now direct your attention towards ensuring your guests’ safety at the time of your display. Here are some of the things you should keep in mind:
- Ensure everyone is a safe distance away before lighting any fireworks
- Back away quickly after lighting a fuse
- Wear eye protection
- Only light one firework at a time
- Never relight a dud
- Never light a firework in your hand
- Never throw or point fireworks at another person
- Always light fireworks outdoors
- After a firework combusts, wait a while and then douse it with cold water before throwing it away
- Do not consume drugs or alcohol while lighting fireworks
Contact our Washington D.C. firm:
If you have been involved in a firework accident due to another party’s negligence to take one or more of the safety measures listed above, you may be entitled to financial compensation. This is why you cannot wait and must hire a lawyer to resolve your matter as swiftly and efficiently as possible.
Trombly & Singer, PLLC, has extensive experience handling complex medical negligence cases. Our firm has helped countless families and children achieve justice for the injuries that they suffered because of medical treatment that fell below the standard of care. To schedule a free legal consultation with our legal professionals, Contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC.