The Most Common Car Accident Injuries in Ohio & How to Recover
Posted in: Car Accidents
KNR Legal Blog
Fireworks and summer celebrations go together like hamburgers and hotdogs. But along with summer parties comes the risk of injury for those who use fireworks. Before you light up the sky this July 4th, read these tips to keep you and your family safe around fireworks and know what to do if there is an accident.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC) fireworks start an average of 19,000 fires each year. Sparklers can cause injuries too, accounting for more than 25% of emergency room visits for fireworks injuries. Over 50% of fireworks injury victims are children and young adults under 30. Burns are the most common fireworks injury, but they can also cause eye damage and hearing loss.
Clearly, fireworks can be dangerous, even more so when used irresponsibly. However, you can take these steps to prepare for a fun and safe night around fireworks whether you’re lighting them or just enjoying the show.
Maintain a safe distance from the launch site as instructed on the firework packaging — Ohio law requires at a distance of at least 150 feet. Keep a watchful eye on children and pets who may wander too close to the fireworks display.
Children and pets are particularly vulnerable during firework displays. Keep a close eye on your kids and educate them about the dangers of fireworks. Even sparklers, often perceived as harmless, burn at around 2,000°F and should be handled with care.
For pets, the loud noises and bright lights of fireworks can cause severe stress. Keep pets indoors, close nearby doors and windows, and put on some on music or TV to mask the sounds.
Fireworks are legal in Ohio, but can only be used at specified times and locations. Consumers can discharge fireworks on their own property or on someone else’s property if express permission has been granted. If you plan to discharge fireworks anywhere else, ask about what permits from local authorities you might need to avoid hefty fines or even criminal charges.
Here are some tips for using fireworks safely:
Only purchase fireworks from reputable vendors and opt for consumer-grade fireworks. When deciding where to set them off, select a flat, clear area away from buildings, flammable materials, and crowds.
Aerial fireworks, such as mortars and Roman candles, should be launched from stable platforms aimed away from people. Ground-based fireworks, like fountains and wheels, should be anchored securely to prevent tipping.
Don’t light up your fireworks if it’s particularly dry or windy and keep a fire extinguisher or hose nearby in case of fire.
Your fireworks will come with manufacturer’s instructions, which you should read and follow closely. Light one firework at a time using a long-reach lighter, and retreat to a safe distance after ignition. Never lean over a firework while lighting it or attempt to relight one if it’s a dud.
You might wonder what to do with used fireworks after you’ve set them off. Though it might be tempting to just throw them in the garbage can, the waste can hurt the environment or even reignite if it’s too hot.
Thoroughly douse spent fireworks with water and allow them to cool completely before putting them in the trash. Look around the area to collect any debris or unexploded fireworks. If a firework malfunctioned or misfired, wait at least 20 minutes before approaching, and then soak it in water for several hours or overnight before disposal.
If you are injured by fireworks negligently handled by a private individual, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit in Ohio. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help navigate the legal complexities and pursue fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Even at professional firework displays organized by municipalities or private companies, accidents can happen. In such cases, liability may hinge on proving negligence on the part of the organizers. This could involve improper setup, malfunctioning equipment, or inadequate crowd control.
If you’d rather skip the backyard fireworks show, many cities across Ohio host professional displays around the 4th. These shows are a great opportunity to take in a show without handling fireworks yourself. For example, Red, White & BOOM! , held in downtown Columbus, bills itself the largest fireworks festival in the Midwest and draws nearly half a million visitors each year.
A list of locations, dates, and times for other fireworks shows across Ohio can be found here.
Fireworks can be a fun and entertaining way to celebrate holidays like the Fourth of July. But if an accident occurs due to negligence, remember you may have legal options. Contact Kisling, Nestico & Redick, LLC to speak with our experienced personal injury attorneys right away.
Call 1-800-HURT-NOW to schedule a free, no-risk consultation today.