Fireworks displays, a beloved 4th of July tradition, can also result in accidents and may pose significant personal injury risks. Spectators, as well as licensed fireworks operators (also referred to as pyrotechnicians), may suffer painful burns in cases where fireworks detonate improperly. Fireworks (pyrotechnics) are essentially controlled explosions, accentuated by the burning of different accelerants or powders. Despite a general adherence to local safety laws and codes, accidents still happen…even in the most professionally controlled fireworks display events.
39 Injured by Fireworks Display Accident near Los Angeles
As we have recently passed through this year’s 4th of July celebration, the recent festivities were no exception to the elevated accident risks posed by fireworks displays. This year, a notable fireworks mishap took place in Simi Valley, CA; a suburban area situated roughly 15 miles northwest of Los Angeles. During the fireworks display, an alleged malfunction caused several mortars to fall on their sides and fire sideways along the ground towards spectators. Early police reports point toward an equipment malfunction, despite compliance with safety standards.
The large-scale pyrotechnics accident resulted in a significant amount of burn injuries, catching the attention of The Huffington Post. The established online news provider’s Los Angeles division released a full-length article detailing the accident.
The article described a chaotic scene as thousands of fireworks spectators scrambled for cover. 39 injuries were reported, 12 of which were children. The injuries were comprised of burns, flying debris, and a few spectators who were trampled. Among those treated for personal injuries, three spectators required hospitalization.
The Huffington Post’s account of the incident also states that the California-based pyrotechnics company, Bay Fireworks, possessed a clean safety record free of any prior citations or violations. Additionally, safety codes and procedures and were followed and the proper permits were obtained.
The Risk of Personal Injury Remains Real
Most professional fireworks organizations strive for safety and must demonstrate strict compliance with local laws and codes in order to remain in business. However, we find that accidents will happen and the risk of personal injury still exists across the various holiday celebrations over the course of each year. During the summertime, and particularly near the 4th of July, season-specific injuries pose a threat despite the best attempts at precaution.
City and municipality hosted fireworks displays are synonymous with family entertainment. Although all ages enjoy the tradition of fireworks, children often show the most enthusiasm and families of all sizes come together to view what they feel should be safe, worry-free entertainment. Many adults realize the inherent risks associated with fireworks and therefore rely on 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. Spectators of publicly sanctioned fireworks displays should be able to depend upon authorities and professionals for safeguarding against fireworks accidents.
In the case of the Simi Valley accident, as well as the other fireworks-related injuries of this season, we are sure to see a number of resultant personal injury lawsuits. Full investigations may ultimately find fault and liability with the pyrotechnics companies and/or municipalities that hosted the events. Still, this holds proof that safety innovations are still lacking and we have a long way to go if America’s 4th of July tradition will continue on safely each year.
As the time progresses, we will likely see further restrictions on the types of fireworks used in displays. For companies that engineer their own pyrotechnics, the build processes and materials may need to be further scrutinized. Taking things a step further, a niche market open for fireworks safety devices may begin to open. Fire and explosion suppression systems are already in place in gas stations across the country, perhaps similar extinguishing or containment systems should become standard requirements for public fireworks displays.
References:
Flaccus, Gillian. “Simi Valley Fireworks Show Malfunctions, Injures Dozens.” Huffingtonpost.com. Huffington Post Los Angeles, 5 July 2013. Web. 21 July 2013.
