Fourth of July celebrations have already begun throughout Northern California. While a patriotic spirit is understandable, citizens must not overlook safety when choosing to use fireworks or other potentially dangerous objects. A U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) study reveals that fireworks-related incidents were responsible for two deaths in 2009 and approximately 9,000 emergency room visits for injuries. According to the CPSC, throughout the 30 days near last year’s holiday, about 6,000 injuries involving fireworks were reported in which half of the injuries related to firecrackers, bottle rockets, and sparklers.
Consumers below the age of 20 are the most prone to fireworks injuries; however, the risk of serious injury or even death still exists for anyone within close proximity of fireworks or other pyrotechnics. Some common fireworks injuries and hazards include:
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Loss of Limbs
- Wrongful Death
- Residential Fires
Parental supervision is very important if legal fireworks are being used. Do not allow young children to ignite or tamper with fireworks or other gadgets. It is also crucial to never throw or point fireworks at another person. To find out more about how you can help prevent severe injuries related to fireworks this Fourth of July holiday, please refer to the CPSC’s website for consumer fireworks safety tips.
The San Jose personal injury attorneys at Van Der Walde & Associates cannot stress enough the importance of consumer safety during the Independence Day holiday both in California and nationwide. Take every necessary precaution to keep your loved ones safe.
