Austin, TX, June 26, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The tradition of setting off fireworks as part of 4th of July festivities dates back to 1777. It’s a ritual so deeply associated with Independence Day that it’s virtually impossible for Americans to imagine a July 4th celebration without them.
Though fireworks are commonplace, that doesn’t mean we should take them for granted, particularly when it comes to safety, said Chip Evans, Austin-based personal injury attorney.
“From mid-June to mid-July, around 8,000 people suffer injuries serious enough to warrant a trip to the emergency room,” Evans said. “About two-thirds of these injuries are burns.”
Professional outfits typically carry permits and use specialized equipment to launch spectacular displays over city skylines. However, amateur enthusiasts who buy their own fireworks from specialty stores should be particularly mindful of the dangers posed by these products, Evans said.
Evans offered a few tips for those lighting the fireworks.
- Always make sure that fireworks are lit by adults, preferably by those with experience.
- Make sure there is plenty of space between the fireworks and the audience and that the fireworks are set to fire in an opposite direction.
- Light fireworks one at a time.
- Don’t hover over fireworks while lighting them. Keep your arm extended at a safe distance and move away quickly as soon as the fuse is lit.
- Don’t wear loose clothing while lighting fireworks.
- Keep plenty of water nearby to douse fireworks, even after their flames have burned out.
Over 40 percent of fireworks-related injuries treated in emergency rooms were suffered by people under the age of 20. Evans reminds parents to follow these tips:
- Remember that sparklers can be dangerous for children, as they can burn at temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit, comparable to that of a blow-torch.
- Never allow children to pick up fireworks after they have burned out.
- Make sure children maintain a safe distance from fireworks.
- If a child suffers an eye injury during a fireworks display, don’t allow your child to touch or rub the injury. Seek immediate medical treatment.
Evans said that most injuries are caused by mishandling of fireworks, and that the thousands of annual injuries can be prevented through proper safety protocol. Ultimately, the only safe way to view fireworks is to attend a public event where fireworks are managed by professionals.
“If you want the lowest possible risk on the 4th of July, consider attending an event hosted by professionals,” Evans said. “You’ll maintain a safe distance from the display and, most likely, see a more impressive show, too.”
About Chip Evans:
Chip Evans is the owner and lead lawyer at The Evans Law Firm. He has more than 15 years of experience as a trial lawyer representing Plaintiffs. He is licensed in all the Texas State Courts and in the Western District of Texas Federal Court. He is also a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the American Board of Trial Advocates.