As another 4th of July holiday approaches, public safety warnings about fireworks safety are again in full effect. This year, Independence Day falls on a Friday – making for a rare holiday weekend. Firework displays, both public and private, will be prevalent across Florida from Friday through Sunday. Unfortunately, although a spectacular part of most 4th of July celebrations, fireworks far too often result in accidents and burn injuries requiring visits to the emergency room.
CPSC Urges Safety for 4th of July Weekend Celebrations
According to Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) statistics in 2013, eight people were killed and roughly 11,400 people were injured in fireworks accidents. A recent CPSC study released last week revealed that 65 percent of reported fireworks injuries in 2013 occurred within the 30 day period leading up to the July 4th holiday.
The study showed that children under the age of 5 had the highest per capita rate of fireworks injuries. While sparklers are often promoted as safe and generally child-friendly, the CPSC warns consumers they can still produce serious burns. Sparklers and bottle rockets alone accounted for over 40 percent of reported fireworks injuries, based on the CPSC report.
Roadside fireworks tents and temporary stores are a common sight leading up to Independence Day. For anyone who is planning their own private backyard fireworks display, the CPSC has provided the following fireworks safety tips:
Fourth of July sparklers reach 1,200 degree Fahrenheit. Children under 12 years old should only use sparklers under close adult supervision.
- Never ignite any fireworks in your hands. All fireworks should be ignited on the ground.
- Don’t buy fireworks packaged in brown paper. It is a sign they were made for professionals, not consumers.
- Never try to relight malfunctioning fireworks (duds).
- Keep a large “soak bucket” filled with water or a garden hose nearby as a safety precaution. Thoroughly drench all used fireworks and debris in water before disposing. Dispose used sparklers in water when finished. Never mix smoldering fireworks debris with regular trash.
Understanding Florida Fireworks Laws
City police and the Pinellas and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s departments are calling for safe fireworks celebrations as well as adherence to local laws. It is important to understand fireworks ordinances in the state of Florida and to use common sense.
- Avoid illegal fireworks. In Florida, illegal fireworks are devices that explode or launch into the air. Some of these fireworks are technically legal for sale – but not always legal for use. The Agriculture Exemption buyers may sign when purchasing fireworks from retail sales is not appropriate if you use your fireworks in the improper zoning area, such as a residential neighborhood. Fireworks sold in roadside tents may be legal for purchase, but might not be legal to discharge in your town or in a residential area.
- Recognized that county laws may differ. Fireworks tents in Hillsborough County may sell aerial display fireworks and rockets, while tents in Pinellas County may only sell ground-display fireworks.
- Celebratory gunfire is illegal: During 4th of July celebrations, some people forget that discharging a weapon freely is illegal. A small handgun bullet can travel as far as two miles. If you see someone fire a gun into the air, dial 911 and report it to police.
- Report illegal explosives: Cherry bombs, M-80s, and quarter sticks (dynamite) are illegal and very dangerous. Report usage of these to the fire or police departments.
A Word on Fireworks Safety Risks
Private fireworks displays can pose considerably safety hazards to the surrounding property as well as burn hazards to those lighting the fireworks and the spectators. You should only discharge fireworks in open areas where there is no danger to surrounding structures or property. Large tracts of open farmland or fields are typically safest.
Even if you take every precaution possible, fireworks regularly malfunction and sometimes detonate improperly. Even professional fireworks displays have encountered accidents in which devices meant to explode in the sky detonate at ground level. Fireworks are inherently dangerous and are typically sold as “use at your own risk”. If a device malfunctions and the user is burned, it may be very difficult to pursue any sort of civil claim.
Home fireworks displays pose great risks. Florida residents are encouraged to instead enjoy a local public fireworks display. Limit home use to sparklers and supervise children at all times. Do not allow children to handle lighters or matches. Children should also wear eye protection, as powder from sparklers can fragment and may potentially burn a child’s face or eyes.
Legal, public fireworks displays are generally the safest option. However, every year there seem to be a few public fireworks display accidents where a malfunction occurs and pyro-technicians or even spectators are burned. City and municipality hosted fireworks displays often require private pyrotechnics companies to implement extraordinary safety measures. Spectators of all ages should be able to enjoy the tradition of fireworks and families should feel safe and out of harm’s way at these events.
Many adults realize the inherent risks associated with fireworks and therefore rely on the trained professionals for a safe viewing experience. When things go wrong, burn injuries and trauma can turn an American family tradition into a terrifying experience. Most public fireworks displays are safe – but accidents can still happen. This year, all are invited to enjoy Independence Day responsibly. However, if you or someone you know attends a fireworks display and is injured due to some fireworks accident linked to the demonstration, you may be entitled to damages for your injuries. In the unlikely event that a fireworks display goes wrong, follow up and share your case with an experienced personal injury attorney immediately.
References:
10 News Tampa – https://www.wtsp.com/story/news/2014/06/27/fireworks-related-injuries-rise-as-july-4th-approaches/11450537/
Click Orlando – https://www.clickorlando.com/news/fireworks-safety-tips-regulations/26658626
