With the Fourth of July right around the corner, there is a good chance you are gearing up for the festivities–whether you’re going grocery shopping, preparing your swimming pool, or buying fireworks, almost everyone has some preparations to make. While the food, fun, and fireworks are all things we should enjoy on our day off from work, we should also keep in mind that we must take the necessary safety precautions in order to fully enjoy our holiday, injury-free. Here are some important questions you may have regarding firework safety:

How can you prepare for a fireworks display?

There are several things you can do in order to ensure your Fourth of July festivities go as planned. By following these simple rules, you may save your barbecue, your home, or even your life. Here are some tips for firework preparations:

• Before lighting fireworks, you must first make sure fireworks are legal in your area
• If you see fireworks wrapped in brown paper, do not buy them. They are professional-grade fireworks and are not meant for amateur displays
• Always have a responsible adult present
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket
• Never ignite fireworks in a glass or metal container
• Keep your pets inside–they are easily startled by the loud noises, bright colors, and strong smells
• Always keep a garden hose nearby. Either a garden hose or fire extinguisher may be your best bet in the event of a fire

What is the safest way to light fireworks?

Once you have made the necessary preparations, you should be ready to start the show. However, this does not mean you can let your guard down yet. Here are some of the safety measures you must keep in mind:

• Only light one firework at a time
• Only light fireworks outdoors–never indoors, no matter what
• Never light a firework in your hand
• Always wear eye protection while lighting fireworks
• Never pick up and relight a firework that did not properly combust
• After combustion, wait at least 20 minutes and then douse the firework with cool water before throwing it away
• Do not consume drugs or alcohol while igniting fireworks
• Quickly back a safe distance away after lighting the fuse
• Ensure everyone present is a safe distance away
• Never throw or point a firework at another person–this is not a harmless prank. You may seriously injure someone

Contact our New York firm

If you or someone you know was involved in a fireworks accident and believe another party is responsible, do not hesitate to contact an experienced attorney today. You may be entitled to compensation, which can be used to cover medical bills, lost wages and more. 

Hausman & Pendzick effectively represents victims of neglect in Westchester County and across the state of New York. If you need a knowledgeable and skilled personal injury attorney to help you recover compensation after an accident, contact Hausman & Pendzick today.