The Fourth of July is a special holiday for several reasons: We celebrate our freedom, the beautiful weather, and the friendship we share with our friends and family by having pool parties, barbecues, and lighting off fireworks. The Fourth of July is a day where we can all set aside our differences and appreciate the freedoms we enjoy together, as a country. This is why if you are hosting this Fourth of July, it is extremely important that you take the necessary precautions to ensure everybody’s safety, especially if you plan on holding a fireworks display. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about firework safety:
What safety measures may I take to prepare for a fireworks display?
Each year, around 870 people take a trip to the emergency room due to a fireworks-related injury on the Fourth of July holiday alone. This number is unacceptable, so if you are going to hold a fireworks display, here are some of the precautions you should take before, during, and after the show:
- First, make sure fireworks are legal in your area
- If you see fireworks wrapped in brown paper, do not purchase them. Those are professional fireworks and are not meant to be ignited in backyards, small neighborhoods, or public urban areas
- Always have a responsible adult present
- Make sure you have a working garden hose or fire extinguisher nearby. If there is a fire, this may be your best first line of defense
- Keep your pets inside–they are often agitated by the loud noises and strong smells
- Only light one firework at a time
- Never light a firework in your hand
- Ensure all other parties are a safe distance away before igniting fireworks
- Never pick up or relight a firework that did not properly combust at first
- Never point or throw a firework at another person
- Do not consume drugs or alcohol if you are using fireworks
If you find yourself in a situation where you are injured by someone who failed to take one or more of the precautions listed above, then there is a good chance you may qualify for compensation.
How do I recover compensation following a fireworks accident?
In order to recover compensation, you must first satisfy the burden of proof by proving the other party’s negligence. One of the best ways to prove your case is by taking photographs or video of the incident and its aftermath. If you can clearly establish that you were injured due to another party’s negligence, you will most likely recover compensation. You should also see a medical professional immediately after the incident occurred, as they will provide documentation regarding your accident, which may also help you win your case.
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